More ACMs arrive in Cebu

ANOTHER shipment of Automated Counting Machines (ACMs) arrived on Friday, April 25, 2025, for the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Central Visayas, as the agency ramps up preparations for the upcoming national and local elections.

Comelec Regional Director Francisco Pobe said the delivery of election equipment for Region 7 remains on track, although the regional office is still verifying the total number of ACMs received in Cebu from the two container vans. 

The latest batch of machines is now secured at a logistics facility in Mandaue City.

Each unit is boxed, sealed, and clearly labeled with its assigned municipality to ensure organized and traceable deployment across Central Visayas.

“So far, we are within our delivery timeline, especially for Cebu province, although the deliveries are still ongoing,” Pobe said.

For Cebu, Comelec is expecting a total of 4,500 ACMs, including contingency units. 

The province is also set to receive 4,065 ballot boxes and 4,065 external batteries. 

Deliveries

The first batch delivered to Cebu already included 672 principal ACM units, while 53 Consolidation and Canvassing System (CCS) kits have also been allocated for the province. 

Pobe said additional container vans are still in transit and will complete the province’s full allocation.

In Bohol, deliveries have already been completed. 

The province has received 1,542 principal ACMs and an additional 220 contingency units, along with 1,494 ballot boxes, 1,494 external batteries, and 49 CCS kits. 

The only remaining items for Bohol are the official ballots, which are scheduled to arrive during the first week of May.

Distribution 

Pobe noted that no significant issues have been reported so far in the delivery process. 

Once equipment reaches the provincial hub, it is distributed to the local election officers, who will temporarily store the machines in secure facilities under their supervision.

Comelec is also handling its own logistics for transporting both equipment and election workers to precincts. 

Pobe clarified that local government units will not be involved in the transport of election paraphernalia to avoid any public perception of political interference.

“Comelec will be hiring vehicles and may tap other deputized government agencies such as the DPWH and the Philippine Coast Guard. We will not be relying on LGUs—not because we don’t trust them, but to avoid casting any doubt or suspicion among the public,” Pobe said.

The regional office is targeting completion of all deliveries and final preparations by the end of April.  / CAV