MANILA, Philippines — Opposing candidates for local positions in Malabon City signed on Wednesday a pledge to work toward the peaceful conduct of the May 9 elections.
Councilor Jose Lorenzo Oreta and former vice mayor Jeannie Sandoval took part in a “unity walk” toward the San Bartolome Parish Church.
Oreta and Sandoval seek to replace the councilor’s older brother, Mayor Antolin Oreta III, who is on his third and last term.
The two camps signed an “integrity pledge” prepared by the Commission on Elections.
By signing the pledge, they promised to “not seek to unduly influencing them by offering money, influence or other things of value, in exchange for votes.”
They also vowed “neither mislead or misinform the public (and) avoid dissemination of altered and manipulated media that impersonate other candidates, including deep-fake videos” and to refrain from using trolls to attack candidates.
The rivals also promised to disclose the sources of their campaign funds and how the money was spent and ensure that health and safety protocols against COVID-19 are observed during the campaign period.