Manila, March 21 -- The Philippine Army hosted a peace covenant signing for local political candidates in Maguindanao del Sur as part of efforts to ensure peaceful elections in May.

Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, welcomed candidates in Ampatuan town on Thursday, facilitated by Lt. Col. Loqui Marco of the 90th Infantry Battalion.

"I am glad you responded to our desire to create an atmosphere of peace and fairness where everyone can campaign peacefully, and voters can choose their leaders free from intimidation and violence," Catu said during the forum at Black Ground Hall, according to a news release Friday.

The activity included a pledge of commitment and signing of a peace covenant by candidates. ...