ANGELES CITY, Philippines – The local elections in Angeles City may still be months away, but the political atmosphere was already charged as candidates gathered for a Unity Walk and Peace Covenant Signing on February 15 at the Holy Rosary Parish Church.
The event, led by the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) in collaboration with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine Army, the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), religious groups, and various NGOs, aimed to promote peaceful and honest elections.
What was meant to be a non-partisan gathering turned into an early show of strength for candidates, as key political figures walked side by side. Among them were Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., running for congressman in the first district, Representative Jon Lazatin II, vying for the mayoral post, and retired PNP chief General Oscar Albayalde, also contesting the city’s top position.
Adding to the tension was the presence of vice mayoral rivals Vicky Vega and Amos Rivera, who stood on opposite sides of the political spectrum but momentarily shared the same stage for the unity pledge.
The covenant signing was a commitment to uphold fair elections, denounce violence, and respect the people’s mandate. Candidates placed their signatures on the agreement, symbolizing their promise to prioritize public service over personal or party interests.
Law enforcement agencies assured residents of a secure and impartial electoral process. “We will ensure that the elections remain orderly and free from intimidation,” ACPO officials stated.
Religious and civil society leaders called on both candidates and voters to embrace accountability and reject electoral fraud. “True leadership is built on trust, not on coercion,” a church representative emphasized.
As the campaign season officially begins, the unity walk stands as both a hopeful sign of cooperation and a preview of the heated electoral battle ahead in Angeles City.