PNP predicts peaceful and orderly elections in Ifugao

by Dan B. Codamon

Lagawe, Ifugao (6 March) — The Philippine National Police(PNP) here bravely predicted that there will be no election-related violence or disturbances that will disrupt the election in the province this coming May 10, 2010.

This is based on observations that there are no intense political rivalries between the local candidates compared with other provinces of the country. Moreover, the PNP did not record any election violations such as the implementation of the gun ban.

The police also noted that there are no Private Armed Groups in the province that can initiate threats, intimidation and violence against the people.

Ifugao is adjudged as the most peaceful province of the Cordillera for 2009 and the police aims to maintain and sustain this reputation even with the coming 2010 automated election, said Police Chief Inspector Rudy Viernes of the Ifugao PNP Command during the recent Ifugao Provincial Peace and Order meeting held at Camp Joaquin Dunuan here.

They also reported that almost all of the local candidates are very cooperative in abiding with the election laws and instructions imposed by the Commission and Election (COMELEC) such as attending meetings called for the purpose of designating the common poster areas, conduct of candidates forum and other activities needed for an orderly and peaceful election.

The COMELEC together with the police and other member agencies deputized by the COMELEC have been massively conducting information, education and information campaign with regards to the automated election and election laws so that the people will be aware and also cooperate to the effort of having a peaceful, honest and orderly poll in Ifugao.

Before the campaign period starts for the local candidates, the COMELEC and the police also plan to have a peace covenant signed by all the provincial and municipal candidates running for the different elective positions. (PIA-Ifugao)