Cagayan de Oro: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) mandated strict compliance with election regulations Wednesday as local candidates prepare for the start of the campaign period on March 28. The enforcement came during a unity walk and peace covenant signing that drew nearly all the city’s political contenders and thousands of their supporters.

According to Philippines News Agency, City Election Officer Ramil Acol emphasized the importance of fair campaigning during the event, which began at Rodelsa Circle and concluded peacefully at Divisoria Amphitheater. “While Cagayan de Oro has maintained orderly elections historically, we must ensure all candidates commit to proper conduct,” Acol said, noting only vice mayoral candidate Zaldy Ocon was absent among major contenders.

Wednesday’s activities included a Comelec briefing on campaign rules, signing of integrity pledges by political rivals, and a public forum organized by poll watchdog National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel). The mayoral race features incumbent Rolando Uy against former mayor Oscar Moreno and third-time candidate Jose Gabriel La Vi±a, along with independents Bingky Beja, Romel Cabildo, and Vic Flores.

Acol expressed confidence the city would maintain peaceful elections despite heated contests for mayor and congressional seats. The local Comelec office will conduct daily monitoring once campaigning begins Friday, with particular attention to six mayoral candidates and eighteen city council positions at stake.