13 poll candidates in Negros Occidental ink covenant vs fraud, violence
BACOLOD CITY — Thirteen of 41 candidates for various provincial posts in Negros Occidental pledged to conduct their campaigns with integrity and to respect the outcome of the May 12 elections.
The 13 candidates made the pledge during the signing of a covenant for clean, honest, and peaceful elections at the Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City on Feb. 13.
They committed to focus on their respective platforms of government and refrain from attacking the personal lives of fellow candidates during the campaign period.
They also pledged to avoid vote-buying, all forms of election fraud, and the use of threats, as well as refrain from spending beyond what is lawfully permitted during the campaign.
The candidates also committed to accept nobly the results of the election and respect whatever the decision of the people in the May 12 polls would be.
Ian Lee Ananoria, Negros Occidental provincial elections supervisor, stressed the need to campaign with integrity, focusing on the issues that matter most to the people.
He also stressed the need to respect the outcome of the elections, win or lose, because the voice of the people is the voice of democracy.
“We pledge to reject any and all forms of violence and intimidation, and to work together to ensure that our elections are a true reflection of the will of the people,” he said.
Col. Rainerio de Chavez, police provincial director; Brigadier General Ted Dumosmog, 303rd Brigade commander; and Commodore Jan Terazona, Philippine Coast Guard Northern Negros Occidental acting commander, also pledged to do their part to keep the elections honest and peaceful.
De Chavez said the covenant serves as a pledge to foster an environment where every individual’s right to vote is respected, ensuring a safe and orderly election.
“It symbolizes collaboration among all stakeholders, signifying our united stand against electoral violence and misconduct,” he said.
The peace covenant ended with the participants releasing white balloons and singing Pilipinas Kong Mahal.
