San Carlos City candidates vying for various local government positions gathered for a Unity Walk and Peace Covenant Signing today, Feb 26, at the Leon B. Yu Complex, Barangay 2.

Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Commission on Elections (Comelec), Philippine Army, Philippine Coast Guard San Carlos City, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6, faith-based groups, and other community stakeholders also joined the event.

Election Officer IV Atty. Gabrielle Buena said the event represented a shared commitment to conducting the election in an atmosphere of peace, unity, and respect; urging candidates to reflect on their responsibilities and conduct their campaigns with honesty, transparency, and accountability.

Atty. Buena also encouraged them to read, understand, and adhere to the policies set by the Comelec, including Comelec Resolution 11086, outlining the implementing rules of Republic Act 9006, also known as the Fair Election Act and Comelec Resolution 11104, which establishes the commitment to combat vote-buying and selling and the abuse of state resources.

She also reminded candidates, stakeholders, and voters of their responsibility to ensure clean, honest, accurate, meaningful, and peaceful elections.

On the other hand, DILG Negros Island Region Cluster I Head LGOO VII Evelyn Vista stressed that leaders are entrusted with the effective management of resources and the general welfare of the people. She urged candidates to prevent harassment, coercion, or terrorism that could compromise the electoral process.

Vista also called for vigilance against external forces that may attempt to sabotage the elections.

Police Lt. Col. Ariel Pico, Deputy Provincial Director for Administration of PNP Negros Occidental, assured that as the 2025 midterm elections approach, law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to maintain peace and order.

In addition to their regular crime prevention and public safety duties, proactive measures are implemented to ensure a smooth electoral process.

PNP San Carlos Police Chief Lt. Col. Basman Macarangal Jr. also said the city is fortunate to have minimal opposition for most major positions and no significant issues that could threaten the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections.

He also encouraged all stakeholders to remain united in protecting the people’s right to vote freely and fairly, defending democracy, and upholding justice.

As a symbolic gesture of peace, representatives from the PNP, Comelec, Philippine Army, Philippine Coast Guard, DILG, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6, faith-based groups, and San Carlos City Mayor Renato Gustilo participated in the release of white doves, signifying their commitment to a fair and peaceful electoral process.

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