SAVE Kalinga brings anti-vote buying campaign to Balbalan, Pasil; “Let’s spare future generations from division” - Atty. Dickpus

KALINGA – SAVE Kalinga, Inc. continued its provincewide advocacy campaign in the first week of August by presenting its Information and Education Campaign (IEC) against vote buying before the Sangguniang Bayan of Balbalan and Pasil, promoting responsible citizenship, ethical leadership, voter education, and good governance ahead of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.

The presentations were led by SAVE Kalinga, Inc. President Naty Bayubay and Convenor and Vice President Charisma Anne "Ann Ann" Dickpus, who introduced the organization's mission and explained its campaign against vote buying.

Bayubay said SAVE Kalinga is a non-partisan civic organization that promotes responsible citizenship, ethical leadership, environmental stewardship, and active community participation. She emphasized that the advocacy is not directed against any candidate, political group, or government institution, but seeks to encourage citizens and leaders to work together in building accountable communities.

During the presentations to the leaders in the two municipalities, Dickpus discussed the harmful effects of vote buying on governance, community relationships, and future generations. She also stressed the importance of instilling integrity, accountability, and responsible leadership among the youth.

Drawing from her experiences in Lubuagan, Dickpus said election-related tensions can create divisions among families, friends, and tribal communities, inspiring the organization to strengthen voter education across the province.

"Our purpose is not to criticize anyone or target any public official. We simply want to encourage our people to reflect on the long-term effects of vote buying and help ensure that future generations will not experience the same divisions," Dickpus said.

She added that educating voters is a crucial step toward promoting cleaner, more accountable, and more peaceful elections.

Vice Mayor Regina D. Munda Cruz, at the discussion in Balbalan which happened on August 3 during the council's regular session, expressed support for the advocacy and assured the organization of her prayers as it continues its campaign throughout the province.

Councilor Amy Grace Ulep also welcomed the initiative and said the Sangguniang Bayan would study possible measures of support through the appropriate legislative process.

On August 4, SAVE Kalinga presented the same advocacy before the Sangguniang Bayan of Pasil, where local officials likewise welcomed the campaign.

ABC President and Liga ng mga Barangay President Lam-en Gonnay acknowledged that vote buying has long been a challenge during elections and commended the organization for raising public awareness.

"Vote buying has been a problem for a long time. It is good that you are here advocating on this issue," Gonnay said.

Vice Mayor Venancio O. Magangat also expressed support for the campaign and said the municipality intends to prepare a Resolution of Support for the advocacy.

Dickpus said the presentations provided local officials with a better understanding of the organization's mission and strengthened collaboration between civil society and government in promoting responsible citizenship and clean elections.

"We believe that government is an essential partner in promoting responsible citizenship, ethical leadership, and clean elections. Meaningful change is possible when citizens and government work together for the common good," she said.

SAVE Kalinga also disclosed that it has formally requested a courtesy meeting with Governor James S. Edduba to present the campaign and explore possible collaboration with the Provincial Government in advancing responsible citizenship across Kalinga.

The organization said it hopes to bring the advocacy to more municipalities as part of its continuing effort to promote clean elections and strengthen civic responsibility throughout the province.