Comelec eyes internet voting for OFWs in 2016 polls

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MANILA — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is now looking at the possibility of having internet voting for overseas absentee voting (OAV) during the 2016 elections.

Following the amendment of the Republic Act 10590, or the amended Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2013, Commissioner Lucenito Tagle said they have conducted a study to test the feasibility of internet voting for the coming 2016 polls.

“So now, the Comelec is looking at doing a pilot test on the technology during the month-long OAV in the Americas, Middle East, Hong Kong and Singapore where a majority of migrant Filipino workers are employed,” he said.

“They have the adequate technology, Internet connection and large overseas Filipino concentration that are needed for the pilot testing,” Tagle added.

The statement was made after Senate President Franklin Drilon urged the Comelec to fully automate the system of OAV.

Drilon also noted that automation may help increase the current low voter turnout in absentee voting.

Tagle however said that the Comelec do not have enough funds to implement internet voting, adding that the lawmakers might have to pass a law that will provide them with the budget needed.