Philippines Gears Up for Midterm Elections with New Voting Technology

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Today, over 68 million Filipinos are expected to participate in the 2025 midterm elections, with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ensuring a smooth process for this significant exercise in democracy. Voters will be selecting officials for a total of 18,215 positions nationwide, including 12 senators, 63 party-list seats, and 254 district representatives. At the local level, elections will fill roles for governors, mayors, councilors, and members of the Sangguniang Bayan.

This election marks a notable shift from past practices, as voters will use new Automated Counting Machines (ACMs) from South Korea’s Miru Systems, departing from Smartmatic's Vote Counting Machines (VCMs) used since 2010. Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia emphasized that the election's focus is on the power of the people's vote rather than the machinery. "It's not about the machines. It's about us. Our democracy. Our future. Our vote matters," Garcia stated, urging citizens to cast their votes and contribute to societal improvement.

Garcia credited the poll body's preparedness to meticulous planning, extensive voter education, and proactive combatting of election misinformation. Stressing the importance of foresight, he said, "Planning is very important — you need to plan ahead. And so, even if there are minor issues, there's still enough time for us to find a solution."

Key Reminders for Candidates and Voters

On election day, Garcia highlighted expectations for candidates, encouraging them to return home after voting to avoid perceptions of continued campaigning. While wearing campaign-coloured shirts is allowed, apparel displaying candidate images could face scrutiny. Voters are reminded that cellphones can only be used for referring to digital lists, not for taking photos or videos.

Reported practices of vote-buying remain a concern, with Garcia warning against accepting free rides or food during voting hours, describing these as forms of vote-buying and vote-selling. Offenders risk criminal charges, potentially facing up to six years in prison.

Pending Cases Against Candidates

Regarding the resolution of pending cases against candidates, particularly at the local level, Garcia affirmed Comelec's ongoing jurisdiction even after candidates assume office. "It’s a waste—you’d think you’ve already won and been proclaimed, but because of a pending case, you still get removed," he explained, underscoring that Comelec's oversight extends beyond election day.

As Filipinos head to the polls, Comelec remains vigilant in maintaining fair and transparent elections while reaffirming its commitment to upholding democratic integrity through rigorous planning and an active stance against election-related misconduct.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-13