Manila, Feb. 28 -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Negros Oriental on Friday called on government agencies and other stakeholders to defend the country's democracy by promoting safe, peaceful, and orderly elections in May.

"We are the guardians of democracy. Our hard work, vigilance, and integrity will ensure that every vote will reflect the true will of the people," lawyer. Eddie Aba, Comelec provincial election supervisor, said in his message during the Unity Walk and Peace Covenant signing at the Dumaguete City National High School.

Present during the covenant signing were local candidates in the May 12 elections, officials from the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and other uniform...