Masbate: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) led a unity walk, an interfaith prayer rally, and a peace covenant signing in Masbate province as part of the preparations for the national and local elections on May 12.

According to Philippines News Agency, PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon urged the public to remain vigilant against election-related violence, vote-buying, and other forms of electoral fraud during his message at the event. He highlighted the shared responsibility of ensuring a peaceful and credible election process.

“Our commitment to the people of Masbate is to ensure that the PNP remains apolitical. We will secure all candidates, routes, and campaign venues, providing enough police personnel to guarantee their safety,” Dizon stated in an interview. He affirmed that the Bicol police would remain alert and enforce the law to uphold peace and order throughout the province.

Dizon mentioned the possibility of deploying additional police forces in Masbate, indicating that their strategy would remain flexible and adaptable, especially since the campaign hasn’t started yet. He emphasized that the event aimed to promote peace, unity, and integrity in the electoral process.

The event was attended by political candidates, civil society organizations, faith-based groups, youth representatives, and other stakeholders who committed themselves to free, fair, and orderly elections. Participants marched together in a symbolic Unity Walk, followed by an interfaith prayer rally that underscored the importance of moral governance and voter responsibility.

The gathering was highlighted by the peace covenant signing, where candidates and officials pledged their dedication to conducting a violence-free, honest, and transparent election.