TACLOBAN CITY – A new coalition of civil society groups advocating for clean, transparent, and violence-free elections was formally launched on Tuesday, January 21, at Hotel De Fidez in Tacloban City.
The non-profit alliance, named Advocates for Clean Elections (ACE), is spearheaded by church workers and faith-based leaders, with a mission to ensure the integrity of the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.
During the press conference that followed the launch, ACE outlined its plans to serve as a key hub for voter education, electoral monitoring, and advocacy for ethical and peaceful electoral processes.
Rev. Nathaniel Anas, chairman of ACE, explained that the organization is composed of individuals from diverse sectors of society, including church workers, peace advocates, former rebels, youth leaders, industrial workers, urban poor representatives, LGBTQIA+ advocates, women, and farmers.
“This inclusive composition reflects ACE’s commitment to fostering a truly representative movement, one that upholds the values of democracy, justice, and fairness for all Filipinos,” Rev. Anas said.
ACE’s initiatives will include a variety of programs such as voter education workshops, community outreach campaigns, and electoral monitoring efforts. The group also aims to tackle the spread of fake news and political disinformation, advocate for policies that support fair elections, and address the growing threat of insurgency and private armed groups (PAGs) during election periods.
A significant highlight of the launch was the signing of the “Manifesto for Clean, Violent-Free, Honest Elections,” a commitment to safeguard the 2025 elections against any form of electoral fraud or violence. The manifesto was signed by ACE members and attending media representatives, symbolizing their collective resolve for clean and democratic processes.
“Under the banner of WISE—Watch, Inform, Support, Engage — we commit to building a future where democracy thrives, peace prevails, and every Filipino’s voice is heard,” Rev. Anas stated.
“As ACE, we pledge our solidarity and determination to ensure the success of this movement, working toward a better future for our nation.”
In the months leading up to the 2025 elections, ACE will focus its efforts on empowering voters in Eastern Visayas, helping them make informed choices based on conscience rather than monetary influence or other external pressures.
The press conference also featured remarks from key representatives of the group, including Alma Gadin, a former rebel who now advocates for peace, Gil Christopher Rosillo, a youth leader, and Rev. Alfredo Tinio Jr., the secretariat of ACE. These speakers addressed the media and engaged in discussions about the importance of voter awareness and active participation in the democratic process.
As the 2025 elections approach, ACE aims to be a powerful voice for change, working to ensure that Filipino voters can exercise their rights freely, fairly, and without fear of coercion or violence. (Ricky J. Bautista, The Samar Chronicle)
