Bulacan candidates and local government officials participated in the unity walk, inter-faith rally, and peace covenant signing on Wednesday, March 26, to promote a clean, fair, and peaceful 2025 elections.
In photos from left, former Bulacan Governor Wilhelmino M. Sy-Alvarado, incumbent Governor Daniel R. Fernando, and Salvador 'Bogs' Violago sign a peace covenant for honest, orderly and peaceful elections inside the historic Barasoain Church in the City of Malolos on Wednesday, March 26. (Photo by Freddie Velez)
Led by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in collaboration with various stakeholders, the "unity walk" began at the former Malolos municipal hall and ended at the historic Barasoain Church, where the peace c0venant was signed.
The event was attended by candidates from different political parties, law enforcement agencies, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Department of Education (DepEd), barangay officials, and civil society groups.
Before the signing, an interfaith prayer was held, emphasizing the need for guidance, wisdom, and unity in ensuring an honest and orderly election.
The signing was led by incumbent Governor Daniel Fernando, former Governor Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado, and Salvador “Bogs” Violago, along with candidates of vice gubernor Alex Castro and Elmer Paguio, and congressional candidates Ador Playto, Jad Racal, and several board members.
Representatives from various government agencies and civil society pledged to strengthen cooperation in upholding peace and democratic integrity during the elections.
As the campaign period nears, Bulacan police emphasized the need to maintain peace in communities.
Provincial Election Supervisor Mona Ann Aldana-Campos led the "Integrity Pledge," urging candidates to commit to Honest, Orderly, and Peaceful Elections (HOPE).
She stressed that ensuring a credible election is a shared responsibility of Comelec, PNP, AFP, DepEd, PPCRV, non-government organizations, and the electorate.
The Comelec, Bulacan police, AFP, and PPCRV expressed confidence that candidates will honor their pledges and actively contribute to a peaceful electoral process.