In an unprecedented move to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the upcoming 2025 elections, Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Garcia spearheaded a comprehensive mock election exercise across the nation. This proactive approach marks a significant milestone in the Philippines’ electoral process, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to democracy.
The mock elections, a first of its kind under Chairman Garcia’s leadership, were meticulously designed to test and refine every aspect of the voting process. From the remote barangays to the bustling cities, over 100 transmissions were successfully sent from precincts to municipal and city canvassing centers, then onto the central server. But it did not stop there; these results were also transmitted to various critical nodes including PPCRV (Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting) computers, NAMFREL (National Movement for Free Elections) servers, media outlets, as well as majority and minority political party servers, before finally reaching the central and backup servers.
Chairman Garcia’s vision was clear: to ensure that every Filipino voter’s voice is heard accurately and securely. “Our goal is not just to conduct elections but to ensure that these elections are credible, transparent, and inclusive,” stated Garcia in a press briefing following the mock elections.
The exercise was not just about testing technical capabilities but also about building trust with the electorate and among political stakeholders. By involving entities like PPCRV and NAMFREL, COMELEC showcased its commitment to transparency and impartiality. The transmission of results to party servers also emphasized a dedication to fairness, allowing all parties immediate access to vote counts.
Moreover, this ambitious project tackled logistical challenges head-on. The successful transmission of 100 results from Municipal Board of Canvassers (MBOCs) to Provincial Board of Canvassers (PBOCs), and another 100 from PBOCs to the National Board of Canvassers underscored COMELEC’s readiness for next year’s electoral marathon.
This initiative has set a new benchmark for election preparedness in the Philippines. It reflects a significant leap forward in addressing past criticisms related to election management. “What we’ve accomplished today is just the beginning. We will continue refining our systems and processes based on what we’ve learned,” assured Chairman Garcia.
The mock elections have indeed been a revelation. They have shown that with diligent preparation, robust technology, and collaborative efforts across all sectors of society, the Philippines is well on its way to conducting one of its most transparent and efficient elections in history.
As Filipinos look forward to casting their votes next year, they can take comfort in knowing that COMELEC, under Chairman George Erwin Garcia’s stewardship, is leaving no stone unturned in safeguarding their electoral rights. It is a testament to democracy in action—a beacon of hope for fairer, cleaner elections in the Philippines and beyond.
