Key Notes on the Electronic Transmission of Votes and Election Results Under COMELEC Resolution No. 11080

COMELEC Resolution No. 11080

The transmission of election results is a critical component of the electoral process, ensuring transparency and integrity in the democratic system. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has issued Resolution No. 11080, titled “Policy Procedures on Secure Electronic Transmission Services (SETS) 2025 Data Centers Operations for the Conduct of the May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections,” to establish a comprehensive framework for the secure transmission of election results during the upcoming elections. This guide will detail the procedures for transmitting votes, the security features implemented, and the responsibilities of various stakeholders involved in the process.

Overview of Vote Transmission Process

The vote transmission process under the COMELEC resolution involves several key components, including Automated Counting Machines (ACMs), Data Centers, and various servers. The resolution mandates the use of a Full Automation System with Transparency Audit/Count (FASTRAC) and Secure Electronic Transmission Services (SETS) to ensure that results are transmitted securely and transparently.

Read moreWhen is the Campaign Period in Philippine Elections?

1. Voting Process: Voters cast their votes using ACMs, which electronically record the votes.
2. Transmission of Results: Once voting concludes, the ACMs transmit the precinct results to the Central Server located in designated Data Centers.
3. Data Centers: Four Data Centers will house different servers, including the Central Server, Backup Server, Mirror Server, and Transparency Servers, ensuring redundancy and high availability.

• Central Server: The primary recipient of election results from all ACMs and the Consolidation/Canvassing System (CCS). It’s the source for publicly published results .
• Backup Server: A redundancy measure for the Central Server.
• Mirror Server: An additional redundancy measure housed at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) data center.
• Transparency Servers: Provide access to results for various stakeholders, including accredited citizen arms and media.

Diagram of Vote Transmission

“`

Read moreRegulation of Digital Campaign in the 2025 Philippine Elections

[ Voter ]

  |

  v

[ ACM ] —> [ Central Server ] —> [ Data Centers ]

Read moreFiling a Petition for Disqualification Based on the Commission of Election Offenses

  |               |                    |

  |               v                    v

  |         [ Backup Server ]    [ Transparency Servers ]

  |               |

Read moreCOMELEC Social Media Rules: 2025 Philippine Election Guide

  |               v

  |         [ Mirror Server ]

“`

Security Features Implemented by COMELEC

The COMELEC Resolution outlines several security measures to protect the integrity of the data during transmission:

1. Access Control: Only authorized personnel are allowed access to the Data Centers. This includes maintaining a list of authorized personnel and issuing ID cards that indicate the duration of access.

2. Documentation and Monitoring: All activities within the Data Centers must be documented, and access logs must be maintained. This includes logging entries and exits.

3. CCTV Surveillance: The Data Centers will be monitored using CCTV, with recordings stored until the completion of the election process.

4. Two-Person Rule: A split-password system will be implemented, requiring two authorized personnel to access critical systems.

5. Data Backup: Redundant backups of all data will be maintained to prevent data loss.

Key Provisions and Processes

COMELEC Resolution No. 11080 specifies several important provisions that must be adhered to:

1. Definitions and Responsibilities: The resolution defines key terms such as Central Server, Backup Server, and Transparency Servers. Responsibilities are assigned to the SETS 2025 Project Director, the PMO Field Operations Group, and the Solutions Provider.
2. Physical Access Guidelines: Only authorized personnel can access the Data Centers, and all access must be documented.
3. Code of Conduct: Authorized personnel must adhere to a strict code of conduct while in the Data Centers, including restrictions on bringing in unauthorized equipment.
4. Access Levels: Different access levels are established, including VIP Access, Visitor Access, Operational Access, and Media Site Access, each with specific permissions and restrictions.

Compliance and Mandatory Periods

The resolution mandates compliance with the outlined procedures. Key compliance periods include:

1. Authorization Issuance : Access authorizations must be formally issued by the Commission En Banc.
2. Documentation Maintenance: All documentation related to access and activities must be maintained by the PMO 2025 NLE.

Effects of Non-Compliance with COMELEC Resolution No. 11080

Failure to comply with the provisions of the resolution can result in severe consequences, including:

1. Penalties: Non-compliance may lead to disciplinary actions against personnel involved, as specified in the resolution.
2. Data Integrity Risks Breaches in compliance can compromise the integrity of the election results, leading to public distrust and potential legal challenges.

Detailed Procedures for Vote Transmission

1. Voting Process

The voting process begins with the use of Automated Counting Machines (ACMs) at polling precincts. Voters cast their votes, which are recorded electronically by the ACMs. Each ACM is equipped to ensure that votes are accurately captured and stored securely until the end of the voting period.

2. Transmission of Results

Once the voting period concludes, the ACMs initiate the transmission of precinct results to the Central Server located in the designated Data Centers. The resolution mandates the use of a Full Automation System with Transparency Audit/Count (FASTRAC) to facilitate this process. The transmission follows a “send-to-all” parameter, ensuring that results are disseminated to multiple servers simultaneously, including:

• Central Server: This server receives the electronically transmitted results from all ACMs and Consolidation/Canvassing System (CCS) results. This server will be the source of the website publications of election results for use by the general public.
• Backup Server: Acts as a redundancy measure to ensure data availability.
• Mirror Server: Provides additional redundancy and is housed at a separate facility.
• Transparency Servers: These servers are designated for various stakeholders, including the media and accredited citizen arms, to access the transmitted results.

3. Security Measures During Transmission

To safeguard the integrity of the data during transmission, the COMELEC has implemented several security features:

• Access Control: Only authorized personnel are permitted to access the Data Centers. A comprehensive list of authorized individuals is maintained and regularly updated.
• CCTV Monitoring: All activities within the Data Centers are monitored via CCTV, with recordings stored until the completion of the election process.
• Two-Person Rule: Critical operations require the presence of two authorized personnel, each holding a part of a split-password, to access sensitive systems.
• Data Backup: Redundant backups of all transmitted data are maintained to prevent loss.

Responsibilities of Stakeholders

The resolution delineates the responsibilities of various stakeholders involved in the vote transmission process:

1. SETS 2025 Project Director: Holds overall responsibility for activities in the Data Centers and coordinates with the Project Management Office (PMO).
2. PMO Field Operations Group: Responsible for monitoring the implementation of technological aspects of the policy.
3. COMELEC Security Officer: Oversees the physical security of the Data Centers.

Compliance and Mandatory Periods

The resolution outlines specific compliance requirements and mandatory periods for various activities:

1. Authorization Issuance: Access authorizations must be formally issued by the Commission En Banc, indicating the reason and duration of access.
2. Documentation Maintenance: All documentation related to access and activities must be maintained by the PMO 2025 NLE.
3. System Lock Down: A critical point is defined after Final Testing and Sealing (FTS) of the ACMs, where system configuration changes are restricted.

Effects of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the provisions of the COMELEC Resolution No. 11080 can lead to significant consequences, including:

1. Disciplinary Actions: Personnel involved in non-compliance may face disciplinary measures as specified in the resolution.
2. Data Integrity Risks: Breaches in compliance can compromise the integrity of the election results, leading to public distrust and potential legal challenges.

Insights on COMELEC Resolution No. 11080

The COMELEC’s resolution on Secure Electronic Transmission Services establishes a robust framework for the secure transmission of election results. By adhering to the outlined procedures and security measures, stakeholders can ensure the integrity and transparency of the electoral process in the Philippines. The successful implementation of these measures is essential for the credibility of the 2025 Philippine Elections.

This guide serves as a comprehensive overview of the vote transmission process under the COMELEC resolution, highlighting the critical components necessary for compliance and security. The commitment to safeguarding the electoral process is paramount, and adherence to these guidelines will contribute to a fair and transparent election.

Final Thoughts

As the 2025 elections approach, it is imperative for all stakeholders, including COMELEC officials, election personnel, and technology providers, to familiarize themselves with the provisions of Resolution No. 11080. The integrity of the electoral process hinges on the effective implementation of these guidelines, ensuring that the will of the people is accurately reflected in the election results. The resolution not only sets forth the technical and procedural requirements but also emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency in the electoral process.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is COMELEC Resolution No. 11080?

COMELEC Resolution No. 11080 establishes a framework for the secure transmission of election results during the May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections in the Philippines.

How does the vote transmission process work?

The vote transmission process involves Automated Counting Machines (ACMs) that electronically record votes and transmit precinct results to a Central Server located in Data Centers. This process ensures efficient and secure handling of election data.

What security features are included in the vote transmission framework?

The security features outlined in COMELEC Resolution No. 11080 include Access Control, Documentation and Monitoring, CCTV Surveillance, a Two-Person Rule, and Data Backup to ensure the integrity and security of election data.

What are the consequences of non-compliance with COMELEC Resolution No. 11080?

Non-compliance with COMELEC Resolution No. 11080 can lead to disciplinary actions as per the resolution, risks to data integrity, compromising election result integrity, and potential public distrust along with legal challenges.

Who are the stakeholders responsible for implementing COMELEC Resolution No. 11080?

Stakeholders include the SETS 2025 Project Director, PMO Field Operations Group, and the COMELEC Security Officer. It is crucial for all stakeholders including COMELEC officials, election personnel, and technology providers to familiarize themselves with the resolution for credible elections.

What documentation is required for compliance with this resolution?

Compliance requires maintaining access/activity documentation as mandated by the PMO for the 2025 National and Local Elections. This includes proper authorization issuance and documentation maintenance throughout the electoral process.

About Nicolas and De Vega Law Offices

If you need assistance on Philippine election law matters, we can help you. Nicolas and de Vega Law Offices is a full-service law firm in the Philippines. You may visit us at the 16th Flr., Suite 1607 AIC Burgundy Empire Tower, ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, 1605 Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. You may also call us at +632 84706126, +632 84706130, +632 84016392 or e-mail us at [email protected]. Visit our website https://ndvlaw.com.