Candidates running for various posts in Trinidad signed a peace covenant and joined a unity walk for the upcoming midterm polls on May 13, 2019.

The activity held at Trinidad’s municipal gym on Sunday was intended to forge peace among candidates and avert violence during the elections, said Cecilia Araceli-Balili, Trinidad election officer.

According to Balili, candidates for mayor, vice mayor and municipal councilor joined the activity which was led by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Officials from the Department of Interior and Local Government and Department of Education also attended the event.

Balili said that Trinidad was the first to sign a peace covenant among the towns and lone city in the province.

The signing of the peace covenant and the conduct of a unity walk were carried out as part of the PNP and Commission and Elections’ mandate in preparation for the nearing elections.

Balili expressed hope that the candidates will uphold their vows not to engage in conflict and resort to violence during the campaign period and the polls.

Elections in Trinidad will be headlined by the mayoral battle between incumbent Mayor Judith Cajes and media man Johnny Orioque. (AD)