Comelec: Boto, babasahin pa rin ng balota kahit 15% ng bilog ang naka-shade | 24 Oras

Summary

The COMELEC has lowered the ballot shading threshold to 15% for the 2025 elections, ensuring that votes are counted even if not fully shaded. This change aims to enhance the reliability of automated voting machines and reduce disputes over uncounted votes. As preparations continue, the last batch of voting machines is being shipped to the Philippines, expected to arrive a month ahead of schedule. Additionally, COMELEC plans to move a trial regarding a case of material misrepresentation to Metro Manila for security reasons, reflecting ongoing efforts to ensure a smooth electoral process.

Takeaways

• 😀 The COMELEC has reduced the shading threshold for ballots in the 2025 elections to 15%.
• 😀 Voters must shade at least 15% of the total circle for their votes to be counted by the machines.
• 😀 Previous elections required a shading threshold of up to 50%, which has now been significantly lowered.
• 😀 The change aims to reduce the number of invalidated votes due to improper shading.
• 😀 Proper shading techniques are crucial; voters should be careful to use quality paper and pens.
• 😀 The new regulations are expected to enhance voter confidence and ensure that their preferences are accurately counted.
• 😀 The last batch of ballot-reading machines is being shipped to the Philippines from Korea.
• 😀 The COMELEC is urging voters to prepare their lists ahead of the elections.
• 😀 A request will be made to transfer a court hearing to Metro Manila for security reasons regarding a case against a local mayor.
• 😀 The COMELEC is committed to improving the electoral process and ensuring transparency.

Q & A

What is the new shading threshold for ballots in the 2025 elections?

The new threshold set by the COMELEC is 15% shading of the ballot.

Why is the shading threshold important for the ballot counting process?

It ensures that votes can be accurately read by machines, reducing the chances of invalid ballots.

What did the threshold increase from in previous elections?

Previously, the threshold was set at 25% for the 2022 elections and 50% before that.

What factors contribute to the accuracy of ballot shading?

The quality of the paper and the shading pen used are crucial for achieving the required shading percentage.

What should voters do to ensure their votes are counted correctly?

Voters should carefully shade the entire circle on the ballot to meet the shading requirements.

What preparations are being made for the 2025 elections regarding ballot reading machines?

The last batch of ballot reading machines is being delivered to the Philippines ahead of the elections, scheduled for November.

What legal action is being taken regarding the case against Mayor Alice Guo?

The COMELEC plans to request the Tarlac Regional Trial Court to transfer the hearing to Metro Manila for security reasons.

What is the role of the COMELEC in the election process?

The COMELEC is responsible for overseeing the conduct of elections, ensuring fairness and accuracy in the voting process.

How does the new threshold impact the likelihood of election protests?

With the new threshold, fewer candidates may contest the results since even minimally shaded ballots will now be counted.

What advice does the COMELEC have for voters as they prepare for the elections?

The COMELEC advises voters to prepare a list of their chosen candidates and to be careful when shading their ballots.