CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)–Vote Counting Machines (VCMs) glitches, paper jam, deactivated voters and no fast lanes in polling precincts were among the observed situations by the National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections or NAMFREL in Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental.
With over 400 volunteers scattered in various areas in Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis oriental, NAMFREL is able to gather validated information on the process of this year’s National and Local Elections.
In a press conference, Nestor Banuag Jr. Coordinator NAMFREL CDO and MisOr chapter said aside from the paper jam, after 10 ballots, the ballot submission is no longer smooth. Some dynamics in voting centers, people used precinct finders but when they arrived, their name was not there, deactivated. There are no two lanes for regular and fast lanes, if a senior citizen arrives, they will just insert in the line even the Persons with Disability (PWDs).
Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) has stationed thermal scanners in the entrance of polling precincts.
Dr. Maybelle F. Honcada of Cagayan de Oro City Health Department said before voters can enter their respective precincts, they will be thermal scanned. Even though the city is on alert level 1, face masks are still important, she added. Further, an ambulance is also on standby.
Further, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is on alert for any untoward incidents during the voting time.
Police Major Mark Homer Ostan, Cagayan de Oro City Police Office said there are 20,000 estimated voters at West City Central School, which caters to Barangay Carmen.
“Sa part naming sa PNP, maayos na pagboto ma-provide namin. Provide kami ng security at least ma-provide namin ang minimum health standard natin nagayon para against sa COVID.”
(In our part as PNP, we can provide orderly voting and provide security and at least implement the minimum health standard against COVID-19). (JMOR/PIA-10)
Photo release:
National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) holds a press conference to update media of election situations in Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental. Nestor Banuag Jr., coordinator NAMFREL CDO and MisOr chapter shares, “We are driven by our goal, it should be safe, credible elections.” (RDM/PIA-10)
