At least four local logistics companies have entered a competitive bidding process to handle the distribution of election materials, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Comelec said that several local logistics providers have entered into competitive bidding, including LBC Express, Ximex Delivery Express, F2 Logistics, and a joint venture between U-Freight Philippines and Airfreight 2100.
This competitive landscape is expected to improve service quality and reliability, ensuring that materials are delivered by experienced and trusted firms.
Comelec has stressed that only logistics providers with secure facilities and extensive experience in handling sensitive government materials will be selected.
The evaluation criteria will include reliability in nationwide distribution; security measures in place; adequate storage and warehousing capacity;and, compliance with election safety protocols.
By taking these steps, Comelec underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process, ensuring that all election materials are delivered well ahead of the 2025 elections.
This is to ensure early deployment in this month, March. The early deployment of election materials and equipment to the different parts of the country is intended to ensure on-time delivery and avoid a last-minute rush.
It will also address potential logistical challenges, including transportation delays, allow sufficient time for contingency planning, and provides an opportunity for election officers to undergo training on new or updated equipment.
This proactive approach will help ensure a smooth, well-organized election process for both the national and local elections in 2025.
Comelec has emphasized the importance of an early deployment schedule for election materials ahead of the 2025 national and local elections.
According to Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco, initiating the distribution in March will provide ample time to ensure that all materials reach their destinations securely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of logistical delays that could compromise the election process.
The deployment will cover a range of essential materials, including batteries for Automated Counting Machines (ACMs), which will be shipped via sea cargo. The early start in March is crucial to facilitate this process. Election officers will be designated to receive the ACMs, while ballots will be directed to the treasurers’ offices. In addition, consolidation and canvassing systems will be delivered directly to the respective boards of canvassers.
To ensure the smooth and secure handling of these materials, Comelec has mandated that all participating logistics providers establish dedicated hubs and warehouses. These facilities will serve as secure storage points before the final distribution. Comelec will oversee these hubs to ensure compliance with security protocols and guarantee that materials are delivered intact and on time.
To safeguard the integrity of the election process, Comelec is implementing stringent logistics and security measures/
Comelec has required tracking and monitoring of shipments. Each shipment will be barcoded for real-time tracking.
Logistics providers are also required to have a centralized logistics command center will oversee material distribution. GPS tracking will be installed on vehicles carrying sensitive election materials.
Logistics providers must establish warehouses in strategic locations. Election materials will be stored in secure, climate-controlled facilities to prevent damage. Police and military personnel will provide security at storage locations to prevent tampering.
For risk management and contingency plans, Comelec said alternative delivery routes will be mapped to address potential roadblocks or natural disasters.
It has also a backup election materials will be pre-positioned in remote or high-risk areas. Emergency response teams will remain on standby for immediate deployment.
