Manila, March 4 -- Thousands of teachers in Negros Oriental have started training on the use of the automated counting machines (ACM) before they can be certified by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for election duties.

The two-day training, which started on Monday in batches, is held in this capital city, Mabinay town, and Guihulngan City.

Lawyer Eddie Aba, the provincial election supervisor of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Negros Oriental, on Tuesday said the training will "ensure that the teachers are familiar with the use of the ACMs to avoid problems" during the May 12 midterm elections.

The first day of training will focus on the ACM and its features while the second day is dedicated to the DOST certific...