Comelec to conduct field test of PCOS machines Saturday

The Commission on Elections will conduct field test of the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines since their purchase last year from Smartmatic – Total Information Management Corporation Saturday.

Comelec Spokesman James Jimenez said the examination is to test the capability of the PCOS machines to transmit the results of the May 13 midterm polls.

"We will be transmitting data from our remote locations and then we will see if the supposed recipient will be able to receive them," he said.

However, Jimenez said the field test is not open to media coverage.

"We will probably not allow coverage at this point kasi a lot of activities involved sa field testing are internal to the system," he added.

The areas where the testing will be conducted will be released as soon as they come up with the final list.

Before the May 10, 2010 national and local elections, the Comelec also conducted field tests in certain areas.

On the other hand, Jimenez said they will also conduct mock elections on Feb 2.

The mock polls will be held in Metro Manila and some areas in the provinces. (PNA)