By Jennifer P. Rendon
Several prominent political figures in Iloilo skipped the peace covenant signing organized by the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Feb. 5.
Of the 33 candidates vying for provincial elected positions, only around 15 attended the event held at the IPPO headquarters in Camp Sumagaysay, Iloilo.
The IPPO said invitations were sent three weeks before the event.
However, some invited candidates had informed organizers a week earlier that they could not attend due to prior commitments.
Attorney Reinier Layson, Comelec-Iloilo provincial supervisor, downplayed the low turnout, emphasizing that it did not signify a failed peace covenant signing.
“I believe most of them have sent messages to us that they have work to do, which had been scheduled before this,” Layson said.
He added that those unable to attend had expressed the same sentiments embodied in the peace covenant.
In his speech, Layson stressed that the peace covenant signing was more than a ceremonial act.
“It is a solemn commitment to ensure that the elections in the province of Iloilo on May 12, 2025, will be clean, honest, and fair,” he said.
Layson underscored that elections are the cornerstone of democracy and that their integrity depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
He encouraged candidates to promote respect for the rule of law and focus on platforms rooted in genuine public service rather than personal interests.
Layson also urged candidates to demonstrate principled leadership and set an example for others.
For security forces and election officials, he emphasized their duty to protect the electoral process with impartiality and vigilance.
“And for our citizens, we must all reject any form of electoral fraud, especially the scourge of vote buying, which erodes public trust and weakens our institutions,” Layson said.
He added that the activity conveyed a strong message that Iloilo will not succumb to money politics, intimidation, or deceit.
“We will stand together to protect the sanctity of the ballot and to uphold the will of the people,” he concluded.
