BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) led the Unity Walk, Interfaith Rally, and Covenant Signing on March 26, 2025 in support to a secure, accurate, free, and fair elections (S.A.F.E.) national and local elections (NLE).
Representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Integrated Bar of the Philippines Baguio-Benguet Chapter, Joint Task Unit “Panagkaykaysa” and the local candidates joined the unity walk and signified their commitment for a SAFE election.
BCPO Director Police Colonel Ruel Tagel highlighted the importance of the event, stressing the shared responsibility of all participants in ensuring the success of the upcoming elections.
“What was our goal? Hindi ba marating ang ating destinasyon? Kanina naglakad tayo ng magkakasama, magkaiba man tayo ng paniniwala, partito, o adlikahin, tinahak natin ang iisang landas, iisa ang ating hakbang, direksyon, at layuin. Ang mahalaga ay hindi kung sino ang nauna kung hindi ay kung paano natin masisigurong na lahat tayo ay ligtas at lahat tayo ay makakarating sa ating patutunguan,” Tagel said.
He emphasized that the event was not merely a symbolic gesture, but a commitment to uphold the values of honesty, integrity, and respect throughout the entire election process.
“Today, we are not just signing a covenant, we are making a commitment that goes beyond words, a commitment to conduct ourselves with honesty, integrity, and respect. A commitment that will guide us not just today but until the last ballot is counted and beyond,” Tagel added.
COMELEC Assistant Regional Director Vanessa Roncal also emphasized the importance of unity in ensuring fair and peaceful elections.
“Our unity is rooted in our shared aspirations for our future is our greatest strength. Today’s event brings together people from different faith, culture and backgrounds, all with one common goa – to make sure that the upcoming elections will be conducted in peace, with integrity, and fairness,” Roncal stated.
The event served as a reminder of the collective efforts needed to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted in a peaceful and just manner for all Filipinos. (JDP/DEG/Chelsea Mas-PIA CAR-SLU Intern)
