THE Commission on Elections (Comelec), in its en banc session on November 29, disqualified technology provider Smartmatic Philippines from bidding in the FASTrAC project for the 2025 national and local elections (NLEs). FASTrAC stands for Full Automation System with Transparency Audit/Count.

The Comelec said in a press statement that, 'The decision to disqualify Smartmatic was reached after thorough deliberation. Five commissioners voted in favor of the resolution, with one on official business who took no part and one dissenting. This resolution is rooted in the need to address concerns raised by various stakeholders about the transparency, reliability and integrity of the election process. The commission acknowledges the public's apprehensions regarding Smartmatic's role in previous elections and emphasizes its commitment to upholding the highest standards of electoral integrity.'