The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) has pledged to focus on ensuring safety during the upcoming national and local elections on May 12, despite the looming threat of an eruption from Mt. Kanlaon. This commitment was made clear by NOCPPO director Col. Rainerio De Chavez during a peace covenant signing ceremony at Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano in Bacolod City on February 13, 2025.
De Chavez emphasized the police force’s dedication to maintaining security throughout the election period, stating, “Despite the challenges posed by the potential eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, NOCPPO remains steadfast in our duty to safeguard the electoral process.” The ceremony saw the participation of 13 out of 41 candidates for various positions, including governor, vice governor, board members, and congressional representatives, who joined De Chavez and representatives from the Commission on Elections, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine Army, and Philippine Coast Guard in signing the covenant.
Among the congressional candidates who signed were Victorias City Mayor Javier Benitez for the third district, former assistant secretary Lea Delfinado for the fourth district, and re-electionist Rep. Emilio Bernardino Yulo for the fifth district. Incumbent officials such as Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo, board member Sixto Guanzon Jr., and Sagay City councilor Arthur Christopher Marañon also attended and signed the peace covenant.
De Chavez highlighted the significance of the peace covenant as a symbol of unity and cooperation among all involved parties, aimed at preventing electoral violence and misconduct. He urged all candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns with integrity, engage in constructive dialogue, and prioritize community well-being.
Ian Lee Ananoria, the provincial elections supervisor, stressed that while elections are an opportunity for citizens to voice their preferences and exercise self-governance, they also carry the responsibility to ensure the process remains fair, respectful, and peaceful. He called for collective effort to make the elections a celebration of democracy, a demonstration of unity, and a step towards a better future for everyone.