San Jose de Buenavista: The Antique Provincial Police Office (APPO) has expressed optimism regarding the peaceful and orderly conduct of the national and local elections scheduled for May 12 across the province. This confidence comes as preparations are underway to ensure a smooth electoral process.

According to Philippines News Agency, APPO Director Col. Lea Rose Pe±a conveyed her assurance during a media interview, highlighting the positive demeanor of local candidates since their participation in the Unity Walk and Covenant Signing event on March 14. The event, held at the APPO headquarters in San Jose de Buenavista, aimed to promote an honest, orderly, and peaceful election (HOPE).

Pe±a noted the province's sustained peaceful atmosphere following the March event and called on candidates to maintain composure and avoid emotional reactions in the campaign's final days. She emphasized the importance of a calm and respectful election environment.

The APPO has taken proactive measures to secure the election process. Pe±a confirmed the deployment of police personnel to oversee the transport and distribution of election materials. Notably, automated counting machines (ACMs) were delivered to Caluya on April 27 and to the province's 17 other municipalities on April 30. The police are tasked with providing round-the-clock security for the official ballots arriving in Antique on May 3.