DAVAO CITY – The Commission on Elections has not yet approved voting inside the malls.
Speaking before members of the press here Tuesday, Election officer Atty. Danilo Cullo said Comelec representatives from Manila arrived in the city to assist them in finalizing their Project of Precincts (POP).
“My understanding before is that it has already pushed through so I already contacted three malls: the SM Lanang Premiere, Gaisano (Grand Mall) Tibungco and Robinsons in Bajada,” said Cullo.
However, “they told us that it’s not yet final. It’s still under deliberations in Manila because there are some objections,” said Cullo.
“Until now, if you will look at our website, the Manila Comelec is still soliciting support from voters if they are for the creation of mall voting,” said Cullo.
In a post dated July 28, 2015, the Comelec in its website (insert link on the word website: urged the public to vote in an online survey with regards to mall voting.
The Comelec said it is: “considering establishing select voting precincts in malls in National Capital Region and in the provinces. Ideally, this initiative can improve voting experience by 1) maximizing available mall amenities (i.e., additional security and air-conditioned areas) and 2) decongesting voting centers on election day.”
Cullo said he is in favor of the proposal since some voters cannot endure the long queues and humidity in the usual polling centers.
In November last year, Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista said they have approved the proposal “in principle.” (davaotoday.com)
