Cops, soldiers run for clean polls

MANILA, Philippines - Police officers, soldiers, members of the clergy and various multi-sectoral groups will join a “unity run” today as part of an effort to call for clean, honest and peaceful elections on May 10.

Dubbed “Takbo Para sa Malinis, Maayos at Mapayapang Halalan 2010,” Philippine National Police chief Director General Jesus Verzosa and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff General Victor Ibrado will lead their respective contingent of PNP and AFP runners.

Verzosa said the unity run was organized to complement efforts of the PNP, AFP and the religious sector, and to showcase the unity of these three major institutions in ensuring honest, orderly and peaceful elections.

Ibrado said the Military Ordinariate of the Philippines will spearhead the participation of the religious sector.

PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Leonardo Espina said the unity run will kick off at the Camp Crame grandstand at 4:30 a.m. and will end at the Camp Aguinaldo grandstand.

Espina said the run is also expected to attract participation and draw public support from other sectors and stakeholders in civil society.         – Cecille Suerte Felipe