Validation of Voters
Need Biometrics
Kapihan
at NVC Carmen Hotel on July 18, 2015 discussed two topics namely: “Operation
Lista” of Comelec and National Consciousness month of DILG. The guests are
Atty. Rommel Benliro and Mr. Crispin Raymund Gerardo - Comelec Officers (CO)
and Mr. John Ace Azarcon, Provincial
Director, DILG.
Mr.
Gerardo explained that Operation Lista is voters’ biometrics validation and
registration waged by the Commision on Elections to insure voting rights in May
9, 2016 elections. The deadline is October 31, 2015. He urged all concerned to
go to Municipal Comelec Offices at the earliest possible time so as not to
create serious backlog at the eleventh hour.
Atty.
Benliro underscored the slogan “No Bio, No Boto”. This Comelec resolution is
based on RA 10367 or Biometrics Law. Biometrics is defined as digital capture
of picture of voter, his signature and thumbmark. Those who fail to meet the
deadline will have their voting right deactivated.
Comelec
is keen on holding credible, orderly and peaceful elections. It has started the
bidding process to refurbish and acquire Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOs)
machines preparatory to full automation in next years polls.
Under
the biometrics technology, one touch of the key button shows digital image of
the prospective voter and another push indicate whether he has voted elsewhere
or not. This is a significant step in thwarting shenanigans and misdeeds in the
electoral process. At least we have learned dark lessons of the past, concluded
Atty. Benliro.
According
to Mr. Azarcon the theme of this month’s celebration is “Tamang Paghahanda,
Tamang Kaalaman. DILG is involved in Disaster Risk Reduction Management since
LGUs are in the forefront of disaster relief, rehabilitation and recovery.
Before
super typhoon Yolanda, we had no program or strategies in place to cope with
calamities, Mr. Azarcon admitted. Presently, we are better prepared such as
closed coordination among LGUs, training program especially involving youth and
coded communication based on Pag-asa weather forecast. Alpha, Brabo, Charlie
coded messages bear standard response as to preparedness and action to be
relayed to residents at risk of impending disaster.
Mr.
Azarcon averred that a Youth Jamboree on Capacity Development Intervention will
be held at Camp Jizmundo, Banga on July 25-26, 2015. Participants shall come
from all 17 towns of Aklan.
Atty.
Allen S. Quimpo has raised the issue of casuals in the payroll of LGUs who are
assigned as Clerks of Comelec officials. Based on previous experience, casuals
could easily be “programmed” to favor certain voters allied to the Mayor’s
political party. This is a contentious issue and has legitimate basis, Hence,
Atty. Quimpo asked Comelec to have casuals under their payroll. The only
problem: Comelec has no budget reserved for casuals.
There
have been thousands of flying voters listed in two previous automated elections
and yet Comelec chose to ignore the need of prosecuting suspects. If we are
committed to uphold the sanctity of the ballot and credibility of elections,
then it is high time to prosecute wayward individuals.
DILG’s
mission/goal is on transparency, efficiency and accountability of local
governance. Sec. Mar Roxas was directed by Pres. P-noy to handle rehabilitation
and recovery of Yolanda victims but this is on temporary basis. Assignment is
never permanent. Hence, to terminate rehabilitation for Yolanda and turn this
over to Presidential Assistance on Rehabilitation and Recovery. So many chefs spoil
the broth is an apt reminder.
Even
with full automation, it seems eight years away where voters could get their
laminated ID’s is very long. They are important to people who need to present
two valid ID’s for quick identification. This time CO’s promises to issues the
ID’s within this year.
The
right of suffrage is one basis in any democratic institutions. Let every
qualified voter register and be validated before the October 31 deadline set by
Comelec. Let your vote be counted. /MP
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