CAMP SANG-AN, Zamboanga del Sur — With the 2025 National and Local Elections drawing near, the Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN (JTF ZAMPELAN) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in collaboration with key government agencies and civil society, led the signing of a Peace Covenant aimed at ensuring safe, orderly, and credible elections.
Held at Camp Sang-an and supported by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), the event gathered stakeholders from the Zamboanga Peninsula, Misamis Occidental, the Lanao provinces, and parts of Misamis Oriental — all within the joint operational area of JTF ZAMPELAN.
Military units participating in the event included major infantry and mechanized battalions under the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command, such as the 102nd and 103rd Infantry Brigades, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, and several subordinate battalions. Civil society organizations and local election candidates were also present to express support for peaceful electoral conduct.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of JTF ZAMPELAN, highlighted the shared responsibility of all sectors to protect democratic integrity.
“This activity reminds us of our shared duty to ensure that every Filipino can exercise their right to vote freely and without fear,” he said. “The Armed Forces of the Philippines, together with our partners, remains steadfast in providing a secure environment where democracy can thrive.”
He also called on candidates and their supporters to uphold fairness and discipline throughout the campaign period, particularly in areas with a history of election-related violence.
The Peace Covenant Signing serves as a reaffirmation of commitment among the AFP, PNP, COMELEC, local officials, and civil society to foster a climate of non-violence and mutual respect during the elections. It underscores the collaborative approach being taken to guard the electoral process and promote democratic values across the region.