BAGUIO CITY (PIA) - - Around 500 candidates for October 30, 2023  Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in the  City joined a peace walk, multi – faith rally and signing of commitment for a peaceful, orderly and credible  election  on  Wednesday, October 18.

The Peace Walk started at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center and ended  at the PFVR Gym  where the program started with  multi- faith prayers by Pastor Vio Moncada, Nahdir Oquendo of Discover Islam Baguio and Pastora Rowena Orahay of Uplife Movement.

In  the oath and signing of commitment for a secure, accurate, free and fair BSKE towards reinforcing a strong foundation of democracy, the   candidates  were joined by officials Police Regional Office – Cordillera(PRO-Cor),  the Baguio City Police Office,  the Commission on Election(Comelec), the Department of  the Interior and Local Government(DILG)  and other partner agencies.

The signatories vehemently denounce  all forms of lawlessness and acts that undermine the integrity of the election, and promise to champion and uphold the values of integrity, honesty, fairness, justice and prudence for the success  of the BSKE 2023.

 PRO – Cor Regional Director PBGEN David Peredo Jr. called for unity in ensuring a peaceful and successful BSKE and assured that the police force  will do their best to ensure  safety of voters and to  protect the candidates, regardless of their party affiliation.

“We came and gather together in this important occasion for the same reason and purpose. To be united to achieve a violence-free election and to have a fair and peaceful October 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan election.”

 “On our part as law enforcers and in partnership with the Comelec, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other deputized  government agencies, organizations and stakeholders, our functions are vital in the organization of this coming election. Therefore, we will commit our very best to make sure that the citizens will exercise their political freedom to choose a leader with the guarantee that they are safe while voting. We also commit to protect all candidates regardless of what party they belong,” Peredo stressed.

DILG  Assistant Regional Director Ruperto Maribbay Jr. encouraged the  candidates to be role models of public service.  

COMELEC Benguet Provincial Election Officer Atty. Elenita Tabangin – Capuyan also reminded  the  candidates of their commitment to  sportsmanship and general goodwill.

With the start of the official campaign period  on October 19, COMELEC Baguio Election Officer Atty. John Paul Martin  reiterated to the candidates   the do’s and don’ts in election campaigning. (JDP/CCD-PIA CAR)