Political rivals eye peace pact

LEADERS of opposing parties in San Fernando expressed willingness to sign a covenant to ensure peaceful elections in the town.

Senior Insp. Gerard Ace Pelare, San Fernando Police Station chief, welcomed the plan.

He said he will meet leaders of both parties to discuss details of the agreement.

San Fernando town is being considered for the PNP election watchlist due to past incidents of election-related violence.

Vice Mayor Miguel Canoy, who will seek reelection under the Liberal Party ticket, told reporters that a peace agreement is needed in the town.

Barangay Panadtaran chief Ricardo "Nonoy" Reluya, who will run against Canoy as member of the Alayon Party, agreed. "It's a dream for us," he said.

The two officials denied, however, that their camps were behind violent incidents in
the past elections.

Pelare said the agreement would have to be prepared and signed in coordination with the local election officer and officials of the concerned parties.