By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Despite the reservations of some lawmakers and election watchdogs, it’s all systems go between the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and South Korean company Miru Systems Company Limited after they signed on Monday (11 March 2024) the P17.99-billion contract for the procurement of a new automated election system (AES) for the 2025 midterm elections.
The signing was led by Comelec Chairman George Garcia, Comelec Commissioner Rey Bulay, and Miru president Chung Jin Bok.
It was learned that the deal will cover around 110,000 machines and peripherals including ballot boxes, laptops, and other printing requirements for the 2025 elections.
The contract was sealed more than two weeks after Comelec announced that it awarded the contract to Miru, the lone bidder for the procurement.
Miru was joined by Integrated Computer Systems, St. Timothy Construction Corporation, and Centerpoint Solutions Technologies, Inc. in the joint venture for the Comelec procurement.
It can be recalled that some lawmakers, election watchdogs, and other groups voiced concern and called on the Comelec to stay vigilant and review Miru’s track record.
(el Amigo/MNM)
