Baguio City: The Department of Science and Technology in the Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) announced that the Electoral Board (EB) is nearing full readiness to serve in the May 12 elections, following a successful certification process for its members.

According to Philippines News Agency, Hansi Dinumla, Senior Science Research Specialist of the DOST-CAR, stated at the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum that 93 percent of the 3,179 members who underwent assessment passed both theoretical and practical examinations. These assessments certify their ability to facilitate the computerized election process and transmit election results.

Dinumla explained that the DOST required a minimum 70-percent grade for the theoretical examination, while the practical component required a passing performance. She emphasized that EB members must be capable of operating election machines, facilitating ballot feeding, and enabling voters to review their cast votes. Additionally, EB members should know how to transmit results post-counting.

For the seven percent who did not pass, re-assessment opportunities are available. However, if they still do not meet the certification requirements, they will be assigned to precincts with certified Board of Election Inspectors. Dinumla noted that while the law mandates certification for one member, additional training ensures alternatives are available.

The target is to train and certify 4,389 EBs in the region. Commission on Elections (Comelec) - CAR Director Julius Torres reported that training has been completed for about 90 percent of the EBs across 1,963 clustered precincts in the Cordillera's six provinces and two cities.

DOST-CAR Director Dr. Nandy Bantog highlighted Republic Act 9369, which mandates the automation of the election system. This act requires Comelec to train election personnel on automated counting machine operations, while DOST is responsible for certifying their knowledge level.