CANDIDATES for the local elections in Candaba town forged a commitment to participate in honest and peaceful elections by signing a peace covenant at the municipal trade center over the weekend.
The activity spearheaded by the local police and Commission on Elections (Comelec) aims to encourage local bets to lead fair, safe and peaceful elections. It was held a day before the campaign period for the national candidates is scheduled to begin.
Local Election Officer Ma. Rosario Lalic said the peace covenant signing serves as a reminder to candidates to observe the rules and regulations set by the Comelec to ensure the orderly conduct of elections on May 13.
“As candidates, they are very well educated on the established rules and regulations for campaigning and we are hopeful that they will abide by the measures. Their defiance of the said rules may lead to their disqualification and we are hoping that it will not happen to any of our candidates here,” she said.
Mayor Danilo Baylon, who is seeking reelection, said that he will pray for the peaceful conduct of elections in Candaba, and that his fellow candidates will “ultimately follow the will of the Lord.”
“Our prayer is that the Lord will guide and bless Candaba and us candidates, that no one from us will engage in violent activities. As local chief executive, I also assure the people that I will promote peace,” he said.
Mayoralty candidate Andy Gulapa, for his part, expressed optimism that the conduct of elections in Candaba will be generally peaceful given the unity shown by candidates and the people.
“Elections in Candaba have always been peaceful. We have actually inherited that from our former leaders who promoted unity over personal interest, and we are optimistic that the unity will still prevail this coming May 13,” he said.
Comebacking mayor Rene Maglanque, meanwhile, called on his fellow candidates to raise the level of politics in their hometown by only presenting their platforms and proposed projects to the people.
“Let us avoid personal attacks, mudslinging and other form of dirty politics especially violent activities during the campaign period. Let us give Candabeños what they deserve: peaceful and honest elections where they choose the right leader for them,” he said.
Superintendent Alfred dela Roca, Candaba town police chief, also assured Candabeños that the local police are already up on its feet in ensuring the community’s peace and order, and the safety and security of the public.