MANILA, Jan. 8, 2013— The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, a church-backed poll watchdog, has started campaigns for credible and orderly elections in Southern Philippines.
The PPCRV chapter in the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) yesterday forged peace covenants with the local government of Matanog in Maguindanao.
Provisions in the agreement include the commitment of both parties, in cooperation with the 6th Infantry Division to prevent possible poll-related violence.
Fr. Dave Procalla, PPCRV-ARMM chairperson, said the activity is part of the local church’s continuing efforts to promote clean and peaceful elections in the region.
He added that more signing of peace covenants will also be held in other parts of the region.
PPCRV is the lone poll watchdog accredited by the Commission on Elections for the May 2013 midterm polls.
On Jan. 10, the PPCRV and its other partner agencies will gather at the Archbishop Mongeau Center in Cotabato City to discuss their preparations for the elections.
Procalla said it will be open to all individuals and groups who want to help in the promotion of successful elections especially in the ARMM. (CBCPNews)
