ANGELES CITY, Philippines – Candidates in Angeles City for the May 2025 elections, led by First District congressional aspirant Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., vowed to uphold clean and honest elections during a Unity Walk, Interfaith Rally, and Peace Covenant Signing on Saturday, February 15.
The event, which took place in Angeles City, was joined by mayoral candidates Rep. Jon Lazatin II and retired PGen. Oscar Albayalde, along with their supporters. The initiative aimed to promote responsible citizenship, informed voting, and a sense of community ahead of the national and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections.
Angeles City Comelec officer Atty. Charmaine Fhaye Casquejo emphasized the importance of electoral integrity. “Every candidate here today understands that leadership is about service, not power. When people trust you with their vote, it is a responsibility, not just a victory,” she said.
The unity walk was also attended by re-electionist Vice Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting, former councilor Amos Rivera, DILG Angeles City Director Yvette A. Cosio, and top law enforcement officials, including Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) Chief PCol. Joselito Villarosa Jr. and Lt. Col. Ryan Joseph Cayton, Battalion Commander, INF, (GSC) PA.
Candidates from different parties momentarily set aside political rivalries to participate in the symbolic walk and sign the peace covenant, committing to a fair and peaceful election. The activity was organized in collaboration with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Comelec, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), religious groups, and various non-government organizations.
PCol. Villarosa Jr. assured the public that authorities would remain neutral and enforce election laws without bias. “We will uphold law and order to protect the integrity of the electoral process,” he said.
Religious leaders present at the interfaith rally reminded candidates of their moral duty to serve the public with honesty and accountability. “Leadership is a calling, and it must be exercised with a deep sense of responsibility,” one faith leader said.
Local NGOs urged voters to be vigilant against election-related offenses such as vote-buying and misinformation. “The power of democracy is in the hands of the people. Choose leaders wisely,” a community leader remarked.
The event marks an important step in ensuring an election free from violence and fraud in Angeles City. Whether all candidates will abide by their pledges remains to be seen, but the unity walk serves as a strong reminder of the collective responsibility to uphold democracy.