by Miriam G. Desacada
MATAG-OB, LEYTE — For prematurely removing the padlock and seal of the Automated Counting Machine (ACM) sent to the Mansahaon Elementary School in Matag-ob, Leyte, a schoolteacher may be facing criminal charges for violation of election laws.
The teacher, identified as Maria Ana Malazarte, was allegedly caught opening the ACM, by removing its padlock and seal without authorization, and despite the electoral regulation that the machine can only be opened on May 12, 2025, at the start of Election Day.
Malazarte’s action was reportedly caught on video, and it was the police themselves that saw and caught her in the act.
The incident happened on May 6, few hours after the final testing and sealing of the ACM detailed to that particular school in Matag-ob town.
It was immediately reported to authorities, followed by the filing of appropriate complaint at the Comelec for the Malazarte’s alleged violation of Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code regarding tampering of election materials.
Investigation of the case is also still ongoing, while authorities had called on residents of Brgy. Mansaha-on to collectively push for justice and transparency in the electoral process. —-Miriam G. Desacada