Poll service provider tests counting machines
COMMISSION on Elections (Comelec) official service provider Miru Systems has started conducting hardware assessment tests on automated counting machines to be used in next year's midterm polls.
«We impose the highest quality standard. [Each machine] must pass all tests. If one is found to be unsatisfactory, the [entire machine] must be replaced,» said Comelec Chairman George Garcia.
He added that subject to inspection were the machines' screen, scanner and special features for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Comelec Chairman George GarciaGarcia said no problem was detected in the first 900 machines tested, noting the technical assessment should be completed before the year ends.
Five percent of each delivery batch would be subjected to stress tests to ensure the machines' resilience against unforeseen factors that might compromise the elections.
This, Garcia said, would be followed by field tests and election dry run.
AdvertisementHe added that election watchdogs and the media were invited to observe the tests at the agency's warehouse in Biñan, Laguna, including representatives from the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting.
Miru said it was committed to complete the delivery of counting machines in the earliest possible time, noting the last shipment of 110,000 was due to arrive in December.
«We feel very confident right now. In our manufacturing plant in Korea, we have one floor totally dedicated for checking each automated counting machine and putting them through stress tests in an automated process to deliver more reliable machines,» said Miru Systems VP for Overseas Sales Ken Cho.
«We've been very successful in supplying all the requirements on time. Our production is actually ahead of schedule,» he added.
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