NPO deputized to print ballots

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has deputized the National Printing Office (NPO) for the printing of official ballots for the May 12 national and local elections as well as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections. This is the first time that the Comelec has deputized the NPO. This decision follows multiple delays in the ballot printing process, triggered by the Supreme Court's recent issuance of temporary restraining orders (TROs) that prevented the poll body from disqualifying certain candidates. Under Comelec Resolution 11096 promulgated on Jan. 20, the NPO is tasked with "ensuring the efficient, secure, and timely production" of the official ballots. The resolution specifies that the NPO will provide printing services, technical support, security systems, and other necessary resources. Additionally, the NPO is authorized to procure consumables with the approval of the commission and in compliance with procurement laws. The Comelec emphasized the importance of coordination between the NPO, law enforcement agencies, and other providers to guarantee a smooth and secure printing process. The resolution also mandates the NPO to prioritize the ballot printing, submit required reports, and adhere to data privacy policies. Comelec Chairman George Garcia said with the issuance of the resolution, Comelec could mobilize the employees and officers of NPO "as if they are employees of Comelec." Comelec's goal is to print 1.5 million ballots daily. The printing of ballots is scheduled to resume on Monday, Jan. 27. Also on Saturday, Comelec held mock elections in various locations in preparation for the 2025 midterm elections. The poll body said the mock elections were held simultaneously in different locations all over the country to verify whether the transmittal and transmission would go through. Garcia said the transmission of the simulated votes was at 100 percent.