Comelec Urges Congress to Restore P9 Billion Budget Cut for 2028 Elections

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has formally requested Congress to restore the P9.12 billion that was removed from its proposed 2027 budget, citing potential shortages of vote-counting machines and delays in preparations for the 2028 general elections. During a budget hearing at the House of Representatives, Comelec Chairman George Garcia stated that the commission had initially sought P52.66 billion for 2027. However, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) recommended a lower allocation of approximately P44.7 billion, with about P9 billion of the cuts specifically impacting funds earmarked for the 2028 elections. Garcia warned that this reduction could lead to a deficit of around 9,310 election counting machines. With an estimated 74 million registered voters expected by 2028, Comelec plans to deploy 124,310 machines, including contingency reserves. A shortage might necessitate assigning more voters per precinct, potentially increasing waiting times on election day, as the commission aims for about 600 voters per precinct. The funding gap could also affect other critical preparations, such as the printing of ballots, voter information materials, and election forms, as well as the logistics of transporting and deploying machines and supplies. Garcia noted that while P3.2 billion was requested for printing requirements, only P348 million was included in the proposed allocation. This could delay the planned printing process from 2027 to January 2028, leaving less time to address potential issues before election day. Other election-related activities that may face delays or reductions include leasing of warehouses and venues, technical support for the automated election system, personnel training, and verification of polling places. Furthermore, the DBM did not include funding for the Comelec’s proposed capital outlay, which covers physical facilities and long-term assets. Garcia emphasized that the Comelec's budget should account for the growing number of voters and the increasing logistical demands of national elections, rather than relying on allocations from previous election cycles. In related developments, Comelec is considering moving the filing of certificates of candidacy for the 2028 elections to September 20-27, 2027, from the usual October schedule. This earlier filing period would allow the commission more time to review candidacies, resolve challenges, and potentially begin ballot printing sooner, reducing the risk of reprinting due to late changes or court orders.