An estimated 400 political candidates vying for various elective positions in Negros Oriental demonstrated their commitment for a secure, peaceful, honest and orderly elections on May 13 by signing a peace covenant Monday in Dumaguete City.
The peace covenant signing was initiated by the Diocesan Electoral Board of the Diocese of Dumaguete, a non-partisan group composed of government agencies, non-government organizations, the citizens’ arms of the Commission on Elections and the media.
The activity comes just four days to the first day of the campaign period for local candidates on March 29, Friday.
Msgr. Julius Heruela, convenor of the Diocesan Electoral Board, expressed gratitude and delight for the large attendance of political candidates who traveled from as far as Canlaon City in the north and Basay in the south for the peace pact.
At least 580 candidates, some newcomers, others re-electionists while others still, making a comeback are seeking various elective positions in the mid-term polls in May.
Of those present on Monday, all candidates contesting the gubernatorial seat were present, namely, former Finance Secretary Gary Teves, incumbent Governor Roel Degamo, incumbent Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong of the 1st district and independent candidate Samuel Torres.
Also present were re-election Vice Gov. Apolinario Arnaiz, Jr. and rival candidates Dr. Henry Sojor and Dr. Mark Macias.
For the congressional district seats, only three of the six candidates were present. They included former 1st district Rep. Jerome Paras who is making a comeback for the same position, incumbent Rep. George Arnaiz of the 2nd district and incumbent Bais City Mayor Karen Villanueva who is challenging Arnaiz’ position.
Absent were Emmanuel Iway (1st district) and rival candidates for the 3rd congressional district, re-election Rep. Pryde Henry Teves and former Board Member Marcelo Adanza.
Others present for the signing of the peace pact were candidates for Board Member and mayor, vice mayor and councilors of the different towns and cities in the province.
Those in attendance to witness the peace covenant were officials of the Commission on Elections, the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police, the Department of Education, the media, volunteers from various civic groups and different Church leaders.
Also, officials from the two electric cooperatives in Negros Oriental were present to give their assurance of stable power supply during the conduct of the May 13 elections. (PNA)