Peaceful polls in Sulu, Basilan sought

ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Commission on Elections (Comelec), in collaboration with the military and police, jointly oversaw the signing of a peace covenant by local political candidates in Omar, Sulu ahead of the 12 May national and local elections.

Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, said the candidates for mayor and municipal councilor in Omar pledged to uphold “peaceful and orderly elections.”

The covenant signing took place at the Municipal Covered Court in Barangay Lahing-Lahing, Omar. Signatories included incumbent Mayor Abdulbaki A. Ajibon of the Lakas-CMD party, Nundin T. Salasal of the Kilusan Bagong Lipunan party, Duran Sabtal from the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino party and independent candidate Romielyn Pantasan.

The four mayoral candidates, along with their running mates for vice mayor and councilor, committed to principles of fair play, non-violence and respect for the democratic process.

Delos Santos said that the peace covenant serves as a moral and public commitment for all candidates to avoid election-related violence, intimidation, or the use of armed groups. He added that it also encourages their supporters to respect the rule of law and the sanctity of the ballot.

Meanwhile, in Isabela City, Basilan, Brig. Gen. Alvin V. Luzon, commander of the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade, participated in the Provincial Joint Security Coordinating Conference on Friday. The event brought together Comelec officials and the security sector to enhance preparations for a peaceful and orderly election in May.

Luzon said that during the conference, the 101st Infantry Brigade and the Basilan Provincial Police Office presented their security and deployment plans for the campaign and election periods. Discussions focused on strengthening security coordination, refining strategies, and addressing election-related concerns proactively.