LIVE: Comelec press conference (Jan. 6, 2025) | GMA Integrated News - Replay

Summary

This transcript covers discussions on election security and logistics, particularly regarding checkpoints, gun exemptions, and auditing processes. Key points include the election period from January 11 to June 12, 2025, and the implementation of checkpoints to ensure security. The conversation also touches on the use of various voting systems and audits on network configurations and hardware. Officials emphasize careful oversight and consultations to avoid introducing unnecessary changes post-audit. The goal is to ensure a secure and fair election while managing risks and technology updates effectively.

Takeaways

• 😀 Checkpoints for the election period will be in place from January 11 to June 12, with the possibility of their removal in certain areas based on security assessments.
• 😀 The Philippine National Police (PNP) will primarily handle the checkpoints, with potential assistance from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in critical areas.
• 😀 Election officers will be responsible for overseeing the checkpoints, ensuring clear accountability and management of security personnel.
• 😀 Certain individuals, such as judges, prosecutors, department heads, and legislators, are automatically exempt from the election gun ban, but are still required to carry a Certificate of Authority for verification purposes.
• 😀 An audit of the voting system's network infrastructure is currently being conducted, focusing on physical equipment and firmware, but not on communication networks.
• 😀 Future audits will include more detailed checks on network configurations, including IP addresses, routing protocols, and the handling of firmware updates.
• 😀 A new remote voting system is being introduced, adding a different security threat matrix compared to previous elections, which relied on physical voting devices.
• 😀 The voting system now includes devices from three different manufacturers, each with unique components that have not been used in previous elections.
• 😀 The election transmission network will be locked down starting in late January, and any updates or changes to system components will undergo strict evaluation based on potential risks and benefits.
• 😀 Any changes to the network, such as software, firmware, or device additions, will require prior consultation and approval, ensuring there is no unauthorized intervention during the election process.

Q & A

What is the duration of the election period in the Philippines for 2025?

The election period in the Philippines for 2025 runs from January 11 to June 12, 2025.

What is the purpose of the checkpoints during the election period?

The checkpoints during the election period are meant to ensure security, maintain order, and enforce election-related regulations. They are established to monitor the movement of people and vehicles, prevent violence, and uphold the rule of law.

Who will be responsible for overseeing the security checkpoints?

The security checkpoints will be under the exclusive jurisdiction of the election officers, with coordination from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and, in critical areas, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

What are automatic gun exemptions, and who qualifies for them?

Automatic gun exemptions are legal provisions that allow certain government officials to carry firearms during the election period. This exemption automatically applies to judges, prosecutors, department heads, assistant secretaries, justices of the Supreme Court, legislators (congressmen and senators), and other qualified officials.

Why is it important for exempted officials to carry a certificate of authority?

It is important for exempted officials to carry a certificate of authority to ensure that law enforcement officers can easily identify them as legally authorized to carry firearms during the election period. This helps prevent confusion and ensures the proper enforcement of the gun ban exemptions.

What changes are expected in the network infrastructure for the 2025 elections?

The network infrastructure for the 2025 elections is undergoing an audit and will include updates to ensure its security. New elements, such as remote voting systems (OVS), will introduce additional complexities. Any changes will be evaluated based on their potential impact on system integrity and security.

How is the auditing process different for this election compared to previous ones?

The auditing process for this election includes additional components, such as the remote voting system (OVS), which introduces a new set of risks and challenges. The system's infrastructure is also being reviewed by multiple manufacturers, unlike previous elections where the setup was handled by fewer parties.

What measures are being taken to prevent unauthorized changes to the election systems?

To prevent unauthorized changes, the system's configurations will be locked down by late January. Any subsequent updates or changes will be strictly evaluated based on their relevance, security impact, and necessity. Only those deemed crucial will be introduced, and these will be thoroughly discussed with all stakeholders.

How does the remote voting system (OVS) differ from traditional voting methods?

The remote voting system (OVS) differs from traditional voting methods as it allows voting through digital means, which introduces a different set of security concerns. This system has not been tested in previous elections and adds complexity to the overall election infrastructure.

What will happen if changes are required after the system is locked down in January?

If changes are required after the system is locked down, they will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Changes to the network, firmware, or software will be carefully considered for their potential risks and rewards, with full consultation with relevant authorities before any adjustments are made.