The National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) has raised the alarm over rising election-related violence as the campaign period for local bets begins.
NAMFREL made the statement following a fatal ambush that left an election officer and her spouse dead in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.
The incident prompted the Commission on Elections to recommend to its en banc that the municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat be placed under its control.
"These violent incidents undermine the principles of democracy and threaten the integrity of the electoral process. NAMFREL calls on all candidates, political parties, and their supporters to reject violence as a means to secure victory at any cost," the watchdog said.
"Violence has no place in a democratic society. It is antithetical to the free and fair exercise of elections and serves only to perpetuate fear, coercion, and division. Whether used to gain an advantage, intimidate opponents, or as a tool for reprisal, such actions are counterproductive and only lead to further bloodshed. We urge all stakeholders to prioritize peace and orderliness as the campaign period begins," it added.
The watchdog also appealed to candidates and their supporters to engage in healthy competition through peaceful means.
It also encouraged community-led initiatives such as dialogues, candidates' forums, and social covenants among competing candidates.
"To address this pressing issue, NAMFREL, alongside our civil society partners, commits to monitoring potential flashpoints of violence and intervening to prevent escalation before harm occurs," the watchdog said.
"We also urge citizens to remain vigilant and actively participate in promoting peace within their communities. By exercising moral suasion over candidates and their campaigns, voters can influence the conduct of elections toward transparency and integrity."