Preparations for polls slightly off track - Comelec

The preparation for the May 2025 midterm polls is now slightly off track due to a delay in the printing of ballots, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia admitted yesterday.

- By MAYEN JAYMALIN

In a radio interview, Garcia said the Comelec may not be able to achieve the initial target of completing the printing of the 73 million ballots for the coming polls by April 14.

According to him, the suspension of the printing of ballots also affected and delayed other related activities such as the conduct of the mock polls and training of teachers serving in the elections.

However, he expressed confidence that they could get back on track in preparations with the implementation of contingency measures.

He said the Comelec is looking to resume printing of ballots on Wednesday as they intend to use the printing machines of the National Printing Office to double the number of ballots being printed daily.

In case the Supreme Court issues another temporary restraining order, Garcia said the Comelec would still find ways to comply as long as they would be able to produce and distribute the required ballots on time.