Baguio groups sign peace accord for polls

By Dexter A. See

BAGUIO CITY — The destruction and confusion left by typhoon “Juan” did not spoil political peace in this city as candidates and officials signed Wednesday a covenant for the upholding of honest, orderly and peaceful barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections tomorrow.

The covenant-signing was spearheaded by the Baguio City Police Office to renew commitment of sectors to help in peaceful and orderly elections so they will police their own ranks.

Baguio City has 384 aspirants for punong barangays and over 2,500 candidates for the position of barangay kagawads in the 128 barangays.

Bishop Carlito Cenzon told candidates to campaign based on their platforms of government and not to use harassment to force their constituents to vote for them.

Other sectors which participated in the peace covenant signing include officers and members of the Association of Barangay Councils, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, religious denominations, city officials, professional groups, law enforcers, Commission on Elections among others.

Senior Supt. David Q. Lacdan, BCPO director, appealed to candidates and their supporters to strictly adhere to rules and regulations to prevent violence.