This does not bode well for the prospects of a peaceful election in the Philippines next year.

Among the 46 who have been found dead following an attack in Maguindanao province are 12 journalists who had been traveling with a group of 50 to file nomination papers for a local mayor vying to become the region's governor.

The group was ambushed along the way, and all but four were killed in a brutal attack that included victims' being beheaded while tied up.

A state of emergency has been called by the president and there has been the expected pressure for a full investigation called on by foreign leaders, as well as human rights groups and media rights groups.

What remains unknown is whether this will be seen as an isolated incident or as the beginning of a tumultuous approach to next year's national polls. At this point, foreign countries have been limited to expressing their shock over the incident while calling for a full investigation. If this type of activity is repeated, it will be a great test on countries who have been working in the Philippines to strengthen governance and the democratic system (Canada being one of them).

Given Canada's significant role in nearby countries Vietnam and Indonesia (they're both on Canada's list of priority countries for foreign aid), there may also be increased pressure to somehow contribute efforts to ensure a safe and fair election next year if similar violence continues.