Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Watchers on guard for VCMs and ballots’ safekeeping in Munti

Poll Watchers’ eyes are now glued in Voting Counting Machines and official ballots in Muntinlupa as election paraphernalia’s transportation in polling precincts begins.

Five days before the national and local elections, Commission on Elections – Muntinlupa assures locals that developments are all in place according to plan.

Official ballots were brought first to Muntinlupa City Hall Treasurer’s Office from the National Printing Office in Quezon City, escorted by PNP personnel, while VCMs were transported from Mutinational Village in ParaƱaque City to various schools which will be used as voting precincts last May 4.

There were no glitches and problems occurred during the Final Testing and Sealing of the machines. VCMs are now housed in Muntinlupa school’s principal offices.

COMELEC – Muntinlupa director Atty. Ronald Sindo said election paraphernalia are guarded by PNP on a 24/7 shift. Sindo said poll watchers are also welcome to post guard.

The local election officer reminded locals of prohibitions in the upcoming elections.

COMELEC will implement a No Smoking Policy within the school premises, voters will not be allowed to carry mobile phones or cameras inside the polling precinct to be used in taking pictures, there shall be no more than two watchers in the precinct, and there should be no campaign paraphernalia on Election Day.

A Refresher Course was conducted last May 3 at Muntinlupa Sports Complex to update Board of Election Inspectors on latest instructions from COMELEC.


Mayor Jaime Fresnedi encourages poll watchers and the public to take part in making the May 9 elections a peaceful voting event.