Manila, Philippines — Cell phone jammers may be out to disrupt the country’s first automated elections in May.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) said on Monday that it had received reports three weeks ago that 5,000 jamming devices had entered the country.
Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said that the devices arrived in one bulk, making it noticeable. Given the nearing date of the election, he said, “We cannot help but be suspicious. And its only prudent that we remain suspicious.” Jimenez did not give details, but said that there was reason to believe that the devices could be used to delay transmission of election results.
“Delay in the transmission of results makes it profitable for those who want to cheat. The delay gives them time to calculate on how many more votes they need to win or overturn the lead of their oponents. ” Jimenez said.
Comelec is currently confirming the reports of the arrival of the jamming devices and working on countermeasures to lessen if not prevent disruption of the automated elections.
