Leyte candidates sign 2016 polls peace pact

PALO, Leyte, March 24 (PNA) - Candidates for key elective positions in Leyte province signed on Wednesday a peace covenant, committing themselves to shun away election-related violence and fraud.

The peace covenant signing, organized by the Philippine National Police, Commission on Elections and the Philippine Army was held at the Palo Cathedral in this town.

Among those who signed the document were Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla, his challengers Baldomero Falcone of Democratic Party of the Philippines and independent candidate Phillip Nielo.

Congressional candidates Yedda Marie Romualdez (first district); Henry Ong and Attorney Alberto Hidalgo (2nd district); Ching Veloso (3rd district); Violeta Codilla (4th district); Rep. Jose Carlos Cari and opponent Marciano Jose Galenzoga (5th district) also signed the covenant and integrity pledge.

Other signatories were candidates for provincial board Bob Abellanosa, Eduard Colasito, Niccolo Villasin, Mesias Arevalo, Allan Ang and Mimiette Bagulaya.

Maria Corazon Montallana, Leyte provincial election officer was hoping that those who failed to attend and signed the integrity and commitment pledge would also commit to what the other candidates had signed for.

“It’s okay that they cannot attend the commitment pledge for as long as they will commit it to their heart to avoid election-related violence and political bickering,” said Montallana.

Instead of resorting to black propaganda, candidates should concentrate more in the campaign and build their self better for voter to choose them rather than their opponents, according to Montallana.

“They should present their platform of government and their good attributes as candidates and future leaders,” she added.

Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting Vicariate of Palo Coordinator Fr. Dino Evan De Paz reminded the candidates to do their part by helping the people in their respective district after they got elected.

“I tell you if you do your part, your people will be proud of you because of your achievements,” De Paz said.

He also urged local candidates to seek and ask guidance from the Lord on how they can better serve the people and the country after being elected. (PNA)
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