Abra pols sign pact for peaceful polls

CAMP VILLAMOR, Abra — Political leaders in this violence-wracked province signed a peace covenant yesterday, pledging a peaceful and orderly conduct of the May 10 elections.

The signatories included Gov. Vicente Valera and Rep. Chito Bersamin, who are both seeking re-election, and almost all candidates for provincial and municipal positions.

The event was witnessed by Chief Superintendent Rowland Albano, Cordillera police director, and representatives of the Commission on Elections and non-government organizations.

Some quarters, however, doubted the peace pact would work with the presence of armed goons allegedly maintained by certain politicians. — Myds Supnad