What's this? Simply signifying an intention to run for a political position can cost you your life.

For instance, the former vice mayor of San Quintin, Abra, was shot dead recently by a warden during a drinking session when the politician expressed his desire to run for governor in 2010 the election. Amusingly, it's the other way around now – the warden is behind bars!

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What's more gruesome is the abduction, torture, and killing of a group of about 40 people who were accompanying the wife of Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu of Buluan, Maguindanao.

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She was on her way in a convoy to file the certificate of candidacy for governor of her husband when the abduction by more than 100 armed men took place.

About 21 from the group were reportedly killed.

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Mangudadatu was not in the group after he had received warnings from the political rival's camp not to register in the polls.

It is said that the abduction and murders were carried out by gunmen linked to Maguindanao governor Andal Ampatuan.

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Added to the above killings is that of the son of a Malacañang executive, Renato Victor Ebarle Jr., over a traffic altercation. The principal suspect is 27-year-old American Jason Ivler.

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As a Christian country, we would do well to remember God's 5th Commandment, “You shall not kill.”

Taking of human life unjustly is a grave sin. The Lord declares categorically, “You shall not commit murder; every murderer shall be liable to judgment” (Mt 5:21). Or, “Learn then that I, I alone, am God...It is I who bring death and life: (Dt. 32:39).

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These poll-related bloody incidents give us a grim preview of more violence to come as the 2010 elections get closer.

Obviously, violence will never be eradicated but it should be reduced to the barest minimum. The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police should sit down to put more teeth in combating violence especially with the heating up of political rivalries.

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For instance, this early a crackdown of loose firearms should be pursued. Hot-spot provinces and cities should be identified and more police and soldiers be assigned to augment the local ranks.

Private armies should be dismantled.

Of course, all of these is nothing new. They had been aired since time immemorial. What's most important is implementation or a relentless drive.

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ST. JUDE NOVENA. Got a serious problem with money, studies or exams, sickness or marital/family relationships?

Tomorrow is Thursday. Join our devotion St. Jude Thaddeus, the Saint of the Impossible, at the Shrine of the Divine Word, Christ the King Seminary Compound on E. Rodriguez Boulevard, Quezon City at 6:30 p.m.