Maguindanao: Aspirants for district representatives of Maguindanao del Sur in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections on Thursday vowed to make the balloting on Oct. 13 peaceful and orderly. Candidates from the adjoining towns of Shariff Aguak, Ampatuan, and Shariff Sayona Mustapha also signed a peace covenant declaring they would not resort to violence in the coming political exercises.

According to Philippines News Agency, the event also included a unity walk, covenant signing, interfaith rally, and candidates' forum, as stated by provincial police director, Col. Salman Sapal, in a radio interview on Friday. Sapal mentioned that the Unity Walk began from the Shariff Aguak Municipal Police Station and culminated at Camp Datu Akilan Ampatuan in the same town.

"This symbolic march brought together candidates, local authorities, and stakeholders, showcasing their collective commitment to peace, solidarity, and cooperation in the electoral process," he said. The candidates, police, military personnel, and officials of the Commission on Elections, including members of election watchdogs, pledged to promote a peaceful and inclusive electoral atmosphere.

The event offered a platform for candidates, community members, and stakeholders to participate in meaningful discussions about issues affecting the BARMM election. The covenant signing was a formal pledge to uphold ethics and respect during the election, reinforcing commitment to a fair and transparent process.

Sapal further noted that similar activities would also be held in the other towns of Maguindanao del Sur to help ensure the safe and peaceful conduct of the first-ever parliamentary elections in the region.