Senator Risa Hontiveros criticizes the Comelec's handling of the 2025 election preparations, highlighting delays in ballot printing and technical issues related to the 'trusted build' process. She expresses concerns about potential vulnerabilities introduced through repeated software rebuilds and the use of cheaper ballot paper.
Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed concern over the delays and technical issues plaguing the Commission on Elections ( Comelec ) in its preparation for the 2025 elections. She specifically highlighted the problems encountered in the printing of ballots despite the Comelec 's P18.827 billion contract with Miru Systems .
In a privilege speech on February 3, 2025, Hontiveros criticized the Comelec's repeated reliance on a process called 'trusted build' whenever adjustments were needed in the list of candidates. 'Trusted build' involves rebuilding significant portions of the Election Management System (EMS), Automated Counting Machines, Consolidation and Canvassing System, and other election software. This process, according to Hontiveros, is akin to dismantling and reassembling an entire car engine every time a single bolt needs replacement. She raised concerns that these repeated rebuilds could potentially introduce malicious code into the automated election systems. Hontiveros also questioned why basic features like adding or removing candidate names weren't initially included in the system, especially considering the Terms of Reference demanded such functionality. The senator pointed out the Comelec's recent decision to deputize the National Printing Office to assist with the printing of millions of ballots due to the limited capacity of the two printers provided by Miru Systems. Furthermore, she revealed that the Comelec admitted to using cheaper, thinner ballot paper (90 gsm) compared to the previous election. Hontiveros expressed concerns about potential problems this could cause on election day. Despite her criticisms, Hontiveros emphasized her support for a free, clean, and honest election in 2025. She urged the Comelec to rectify the issues and ensure everything is in order well before the May 2025 elections
ELECTIONS COMELEC Senator Hontiveros Ballot Printing Trusted Build Miru Systems Automated Elections Philippines
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