TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN – In support for a peaceful and safe national and local elections on May 9, 2022, DILG Cagayan Provincial Office joined the Unity Walk, Candidate Forum and Peace Covenant Signing on January 27, 2022. 

Spearheaded by the Philippine National Police Regional Office 2 in coordination with the Commission on Election (COMELEC), the event kicked off at 5:30 in the morning, with a unity walk starting from the People’s Gym and ending at St. Peter and Paul Metropolitan Cathedral.

DILG Regional Director, Jonathan Paul M. Leusen, Jr., and Cagayan Provincial Director, Ruperto B. Maribbay, Jr. attended and represented the department while personnel from other government agencies, candidates for local elections, representatives from religious groups, academe, and other non-government organizations also participated in the said activity. 

Giving his message during the event, Director Leusen said that even during this pandemic, the mere presence of agencies and other stakeholders today is a manifestation of their firm resolve to take on the challenge for the upcoming election. He also encouraged everyone present to do their part.

“Even the smallest and simplest deeds, when combined, will significantly contribute to achieving a peaceful, safe, and honest election. Further, this effort will ultimately redound to improving governance for both national and local levels and the benefit of the voting populace,” he said. 

A Candidates’ Forum also took place where aspiring local candidates, where each given approximately eight (8) minutes to introduce themselves and discuss their respective platforms. The activity concluded with the recital and ceremonial signing of the integrity pledge.

SOURCE: LGOO VI KELINDA A. VIDAD