Kaammoyo ti Kappia (KTK) organized a prayer gathering for peaceful and clean elections in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on May 9, a few days before the 2025 elections. According to the group, genuine democracy begins with having clean and honest elections in the province and the country that reflect the will of the people, especially the poor sectors.

Ilocos Norte is the the Marcos family’s stronghold. At least five Marcoses are running for high positions in the province such as governor and vice governor. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s son is also a candidate as the province’s first district representative.

“A genuine election means every vote counts, every voice is heard, and no one is coerced,” the group said. Corruption, vote-buying, Red-tagging, and intimidation continue to threaten to destroy democracy, contradicting and impeding this goal. The group stated, “enough.”

Amid such anomalies and violence, KTK called on the Commission on Elections, civil organizations, faith communities, and the Filipino people to be vigilant. “Candidates who violate human rights, silence dissent, and serve foreign interests must be rejected,” it said.

The group denounced the relentless intimidation of activists, militarization in rural areas, abuses against indigenous peoples, and fake ‘surrenders’ under the Marcos administration during and even beyond the election period.

“Clean elections go beyond preventing fraud–they require freedom from fear, real choices, and leaders who uphold human rights,” KTK stated. The cycle of electing those who trample on the people they claim to serve must end.

The group’s challenge to voters: “let us remember history, reject the politics of fear, and vote with courage and conscience.”

In this election, KTK said it stands with the people of Ilocos Norte and the nation for accountability, dignity, and true service.