By Jennifer P. Rendon
Candidates from the two main political groups in Iloilo City—Team Gugma and Team Uswag—along with independent candidates, came together months ahead of election day.
The gathering on Feb. 20 was amicable, as they committed to an honest and peaceful election.
Nearly all candidates for the lone congressional seat, mayoralty, vice mayoralty, and city council attended, except for reelectionist Rep. Julienne “JamJam” Baronda and her opponent, perennial candidate Mel Carreon.
Baronda informed organizers of a prior commitment in Metro Manila. However, the other congressional candidate, Danilo Purzuelo, was present.
Mayoral candidates Raisa Treñas-Chu and Roland Magahin attended, as well as reelectionist Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon and his opponent, former city councilor Lady Julie Grace Baronda. Twenty-five candidates vying for Sangguniang Panlungsod seats also participated.
Initiated by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) – Iloilo City and the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), the event began with a caravan, followed by a unity walk and a covenant signing ceremony. Representatives from the Philippine Army, Philippine Coast Guard, and Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) were also present.
Notably, Team Uswag supporters attended in large numbers. They explained that they had another scheduled event immediately after the peace covenant signing at the Freedom Grandstand.
Meanwhile, Iloilo City police director, Col. Kim Legada reaffirmed the ICPO’s commitment, alongside other law enforcement agencies, to ensuring peace and order before, during, and after the elections.
“Our mission is clear: to protect the sanctity of the ballot, ensure voter safety, and prevent any act that may compromise the electoral process,” Legada said.
He emphasized that security is a shared responsibility among candidates, political parties, voters, and society as a whole.
“This covenant is more than just a document. It is a pledge of honor, a vow to conduct ourselves with integrity, fairness, and respect for the rule of law,” he added.
Legada urged candidates to keep their campaigns peaceful and focus on issues that matter.
“Let us run campaigns that inspire rather than divide and encourage supporters to stand by their principles without promoting conflict,” he said.
He reminded everyone that winning should be about earning the people’s trust through honesty, hard work, and a genuine desire to serve.
Legada also called on the media to commit to truth and transparency and urged law enforcement personnel to serve with impartiality and professionalism.
“Let us uphold the law without fear or favor, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, receives equal protection and respect,” he said.
He concluded that the covenant signing was a testament to their unity and shared vision for peaceful, orderly, and credible elections.
