Comelec, DOST to hold technology fair

MANILA, Philippines - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) are set to hold the Automated Election Systems Technology Fair on July 27 to help Comelec’s Advisory Council (CAC) choose the best technology for the 2016 polls.

Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said the fair would be held during the National Science and Technology Week from July 24-28 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

He said eight technology providers have so far confirmed their participation in the fair to showcase their automated voting systems.

Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. said the CAC would take the opportunity to assess the best technology available for the 2016 elections through the fair.

Under the poll automation law, the multi-sector CAC would recommend to Comelec the “most appropriate, secure, applicable and cost-effective technology” to be used in the elections. The council is headed by DOST Undersecretary Louis Napoleon Casambre.

Brillantes added they expect the CAC to tell them whether the precinct count optical scan (PCOS) machines used in the 2010 and 2013 elections are still suitable for the coming polls.

He admitted the Comelec prefers to acquire new machines if given the budget.

However, he gave assurance the PCOS machines are well maintained and in good condition.

“They are still good for one election. If we won’t be given the budget, we can still use them again. Nothing to worry about that,” he said.