Shun hate speech in campaign, Mindanao solons tell poll bets amid anti-Muslim remarks

Deputy Speaker Lanao del Sur 2nd district Rep. Yasser Balindong (left), Assistant Majority Leader Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong (PPAB)
 

Two ranking congressmen from Mindanao have appealed to fellow politicians to refrain from resorting to hate speech or discrimination during campaign period in the lead-up to the May 12 mid-term elections.

Making this call over the weekend were Deputy Speaker Lanao del Sur 2nd district Rep. Yasser Balindong and Assistant Majority Leader Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong.

While the solons didn't mention it, they appeared to be alluding to controversial statements that were made recently by Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia on the campaign trail.

Unabia's remarks have been described as anti-Muslim.

"It’s election season once again and emotions are running high. But, in order to achieve orderly, honest, and peaceful elections, candidates must exercise caution in the words they are using during the campaign," Balindong said.

"They should be careful not to use discriminatory statements against any religious or cultural groups. They should avoid general negative labeling of people on account of religious belief or ethnic affiliation," he noted.

Balindong urged the poll bets to be "more circumspect in their statements so as not to open old wounds, foment division, and encourage or incite discord or conflict". 

"Our prospective leaders must lead by example in sowing love and unity; not hatred and hostility," he said.

Adiong echoed this statements. 

"Filipinos of different faiths, particularly Muslims and Christians, continue to live in greater harmony than in previous decades. It is therefore concerning to hear narratives that risk deepening divides being echoed in public discourse," he said.

"We call on all elected officials, candidates, and reelectionists, regardless of party or creed, to reject any form of hate speech or religious discrimination. Let us seize this moment of calm to plant the seeds of unity and prosperity, to nurture a nation where all Filipinos, Muslims," Adiong said.

The House "Young Guns" bloc member said Filipinos "must be careful not to allow words to undo the trust and understanding we have worked so hard to build".

He called on all leaders and candidates to use their platforms "to inspire unity rather than division". He said no electoral advantage can justify the erosion of peace or the safety of any community. 

"Christians, and indigenous communities alike, can flourish. The peace we have today is not perfect, but it is real and hard-won. Let us not squander it. Let us build upon it," Adiong said.