LEGAZPI CITY – The Commission on Elections in Bicol (Comelec-5), along with other national government agencies, pledged to ensure safe and secure national and local elections in May during a solidarity pact signing at Camp Simeon Ola here on Wednesday.
In her message, Comelec-5 regional director Maria Juana Valeza said the event represented their strong commitment to safeguarding democratic processes and ensuring the success of the forthcoming elections.
“Today’s pact serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold the integrity, fairness, and transparency of our electoral system. It is crucial for leaders from government agencies, non-government organizations, and all key stakeholders to unite and ensure that every Filipino citizen’s right to vote is not only protected but also respected. We must ensure that candidates and their supporters act within the law,” Valeza said.
She added the signing of the pact reflected their collective goal to help every Filipino vote freely without fear or intimidation.
Through their pledge, all candidates and their supporters are expected to adhere to principles of fairness and comply with election laws, she said.
“Let us remember that we are stewards of a vibrant democracy. Our dedication to fairness, justice, and mutual respect will guide us in building trust, fostering collaboration, and ensuring a transparent, peaceful, and successful election aimed at achieving the better Philippines we all desire,” Valeza added.
Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon expressed his support, emphasizing the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) dedication to securing the integrity of the elections.
“The PNP will intensify its efforts to safeguard the sanctity of the ballot, protect voters’ rights, and ensure the safety of all election stakeholders. We remain vigilant against threats, violence, or illegal activities that could undermine the electoral process. The PNP will be a reliable partner in maintaining peace and order before, during, and after the elections,” he said.
Dizon also called for collective action and unity: “The success of the 2025 elections is not the responsibility of a single agency or sector. It requires the active participation and cooperation of everyone. Together, let us make the Bicol Region a shining example of democracy in action.”
With the commitment of PRO-5 and its partners, Dizon said, the region is moving forward with strengthened efforts to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process.
Present during the event were representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Civil Service Commission, Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Land Transportation Office, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, National Bureau of Investigation Regional Office 5, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Naval Forces Southern Luzon, and Tactical Operations Group 5.
Non-government organizations also showed their support, including the Fraternal Order of Eagles, JCI Legazpi, Rotary Club of Legazpi, Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, and the National Movement for Free Elections, and various faith-based organizations.
Press Release: Philippine News Agency (PNA)