Comelec kicks Off Intensive Training for 2025 National and Local Elections
MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced the commencement of its thorough training programme for personnel involved in the upcoming 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE). The series of trainings, set to begin on January 27, will run until May, just days before the elections on May 12.
In a viber message,Comelec Chairman George Garcia emphasized the importance of these sessions, stating, “On Monday next week (Jan. 27) is the start of our NLE trainings. It will last until May.” He added that the initial phase, Training of Trainers Phase I, will be held at Diamond Hotel, with field officials arriving over the next two weeks.
The trainings are designed to be intensive, as Garcia noted, “jam-packed because this is the last time we will brief them face to face.” The sessions will cover critical aspects of the electoral process, including general instructions on the Automated counting Machines and/or Consolidated Canvassing System (ACM/CCS). Additionally, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) certifiers will undergo training to ensure the integrity of the election systems.
Training Schedule Overview
| month | Training activities |
|——————|—————————————————————————————-|
| January | Training of Trainers Phase I, DOST certifiers |
| February | training of Trainers Phase II, DOST certifiers, DESO Technical Support |
| March | Electoral Boards and certification, vulnerable Sectors (PDL, IP, PPP), PNP Special EB |
| April | Boards of Canvassers, DESO Supervisors |
| April-May | Refresher for Electoral Boards and DESO Technical Support |
The training program aims to equip Comelec personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure a smooth and efficient electoral process. Garcia highlighted the significance of these preparations, particularly in addressing the needs of vulnerable sectors such as Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL), Indigenous Peoples (IP), and Persons with Physical Disabilities (PPP).
As the nation gears up for the May 12 elections, Comelec’s commitment to thorough training underscores its dedication to upholding the integrity and transparency of the democratic process. Stay tuned for updates on the progress of these critical preparations.
Headline: “Smooth Sailing for 2025 Elections: A Conversation with Dr. Maria Clara del Castillo on comelec’s Intensive Training Program”
Introduction: With the Philippine Commission on Elections (Comelec) set to hold extensive training for personnel involved in the 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE), we sat down with Dr. Maria Clara del Castillo, a renowned election law expert and political scientist, to discuss the significance of these preparations and their potential impact on the electoral process.
The Importance of Comelec’s Training Program
Senior Editor (SE): Dr. del Castillo, can you start by explaining why the comelec’s training program is crucial for the 2025 elections?
Dr.Maria Clara del Castillo (MCD): Certainly.The upcoming elections will be the frist since the revision of the Philippine elections law, Republic Act No. 11232. This revision introduces several changes, including modifications to the voting process and new rules for candidate registration. It’s essential that all Comelec personnel are thoroughly briefed on these updates to ensure a smooth and accurate electoral process.
Preparing for a Diverse Electorate
SE: The training schedule mentions special focus on vulnerable sectors such as Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL),Indigenous Peoples (IP),and Persons with Physical Disabilities (PPP). How vital is this focus?
MCD: It’s absolutely vital. These sectors often face barriers to voting due to their unique circumstances. By training Comelec personnel to assist and accommodate them, we’re making sure that everyone has an equal opportunity to exercise their right to vote. This is not just a matter of compliance with the law, but also of ensuring that our elections are truly representative.
Addressing Technological Challenges
SE: The training will also cover the Automated Counting Machines and Consolidated Canvassing System (ACM/CCS). What role do these systems play in the elections, and what challenges might Comelec personnel face while using them?
MCD: The ACM/CCS is designed to automate and expedite the counting and canvassing of votes.However, it’s a complex system that requires notable technical expertise to operate and maintain. Comelec personnel will need to be well-versed in troubleshooting potential issues and ensuring the integrity of the data. One of the challenges they might face is ensuring the system’s accuracy and reliability in remote or rural areas with limited infrastructure.
Upholding Election integrity
SE: How can these intensive trainings help to uphold the integrity and clarity of the electoral process?
MCD: By equipping Comelec personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge, these trainings can definitely help minimize errors and irregularities that could undermine the credibility of the elections. Moreover, by making the process more efficient and accessible, we can boost public trust in our electoral system. The training program is a critical investment in the health of our democracy.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
SE: Lastly, Dr. del Castillo, how do you think Comelec’s preparations compare to those of other countries, and what lessons can we learn from international best practices?
MCD: While every country has its unique electoral challenges, Comelec’s commitment to thorough and comprehensive training is commendable. It shows a proactive approach to anticipating and addressing potential issues. By learning from international best practices,such as those employed in countries like India or Canada,we can continue to improve our own electoral processes. Regular training programs, like the one Comelec is conducting, are a key part of this ongoing learning process.
