March 12, 2025 – At exactly 2:00 p.m., the 601st Infantry (UNIFIER) Brigade, under the leadership of Brigadier General Edgar L. Catu, in coordination with the 90th Infantry (BIGKIS-LAHI) Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Loqui O. Marco, facilitated a Political Candidates Forum in collaboration with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Maguindanao del Sur.
The forum, held at the Training Center, Municipal Compound in Datu Hoffer, was attended by mayoral, vice mayoral, and aspiring Sangguniang Bayan candidates of the municipality. Key officials present included Honorable Bai Bong-Bong M. Ampatuan, Mayor of Datu Hoffer; Ms. Hamra Asya Macapeges, Election Officer II of Datu Hoffer; and Lieutenant Colonel Henry Biñas, representative of the Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Police Office (MDS-PPO), along with the electoral candidates.
A significant highlight of the event was the symbolic turnover of three loose firearms, underscoring the commitment to ensuring a peaceful election process. Additionally, the candidates took a pledge of commitment and signed a peace covenant to promote fair and orderly elections. The electoral aspirants collectively vowed to refrain from violence, intimidation, and any form of electoral malpractice, reinforcing the importance of democratic integrity.
Brigadier General Catu emphasized the importance of cooperation and adherence to electoral rules. “Our intent is very simple: all electoral candidates must cooperate, respect, and uphold the principles of the democratic process while following the Commission on Elections’ rules and regulations. Finally, we must respect the will of the people and their right to suffrage,” he stated.
The initiative reflects the collective effort of the military, police, and local government units to foster a safe and credible electoral process in Datu Hoffer. Authorities continue to encourage all candidates and stakeholders to work together in upholding peace and democracy in the region.
