The Curious Case of Automated Fraud

Never have I imagined that the recent election would be epic, historic and the constant subject of debate in my conversations. The hype seemed ecstatic and was everywhere, from rubber ballers to catchy political songs to a leaked mental disorder form, etc. The list could go on and on.

It all started when former President of the Philippines Cory Aquino passed away from cancer which led the country asking if her son Noynoy would pursue presidential candidacy. I never tuned in for the latest news regarding politics before but this was news that was making its place in history as days passed by. People waited in deep breaths on Noynoy’s decision which caused quite the popularity he was never given before being a brother to famous TV personality Kris Aquino.

The announcement was officially made and the color yellow was everywhere. Even former Presidential candidate Mar Roxas stepped down to run instead for Vice Presidency in favor for his fellow Atenista.

The country was divided in choice for the next leader but united in hopes and dreams for a better Philippines. The surveys were up, the frenzy was crazy and people couldn’t wait for the 10th of May to arrive.

One of the great things about this election though are not only the smart and eligible candidates, the youth speaking out but also the innovation of an automated election through Smartmatic machines. It was easier, safer and arguably more efficient than the usual type of voting people were used to since the country elected its public officials. It caused a debate though as it, people claimed, was easier to manipulate the votes through computer hacking. The makers of Smartmatic rejects those allegations insuring that it was safe as simply put by the president of Smartmatic—shade, open, close and transmit. Voila! Now go get that thumb inked.

Cool right?

But the heat turned up to the highest degree when the winners were announced. Noynoy Aquino became President with Jejomar Binay with his side as Vice President. It would turn out to be one of the most peaceful elections ever with losing candidates conceding but some were not contented with the result. They demanded recount and accused Smartmatic of manipulating votes. They also claim of being cheated without proof.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) started gathering evidence for the investigation while the Nationl Bureau of Investigation (NBI) addressed the complaints with their own investigation bringing in people from Smartmatic for questioning and checking the tampered memory cards.

Apparently, The Commission of Elections (Comelec) are looking into the source of yet another tape scandal called “Hello, Nico” allegedly between Interior and Local Government Sectary Ronaldo Puno and Comelec Commissioner Nicodemo Ferrer discussin poll fraud.

Even though the amount to purchase the PCOS machines—7 Billion Pesos—the government has leased them after the 2010 election, it is still looking forward to using it this upcoming 2013 election. But Smartmatic might not be paid in full regarding the circumstances.