Thousands join prayer rally in Batangas for peaceful elections

INQUIRER.net file photo

MANILA, Philippines — Thousands of Batangueños gathered in the municipality of Bauan on Saturday afternoon for a prayer rally advocating peace and unity ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

Organized by the United Batangas for Peace, the prayer rally began with a Walk for Peace from Bauan Technical High School to Plaza Orense.

“The walk symbolized the collective aspiration of Batangueños for a peaceful and orderly election,” the group said in a statement Sunday.

Participants from various sectors, including religious leaders, government officials, and community groups, marched in solidarity, calling for an orderly electoral process.

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The organizers stressed that the rally was not just about the elections but about maintaining lasting peace in Batangas.

“This is about fostering a culture of peace in our province, beyond politics,” they emphasized.

According to the group, among the notable attendees were Rep. Rodante Marcoleta; Bauan Vice Mayor Jay Manalo Ilagan, a gubernatorial candidate; and other local leaders both from Bauan and the second district of Batangas.

Bauan falls under Batangas’ second district, where heated races are expected for the mayoral and congressional seats in the 2025 midterm elections.