The head of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Commission on the Laity has discouraged the public from voting for those belonging to political dynasties in the May 2022 polls.
Archdiocese of Manila Apostolic Administrator Bishop Broderick Pabillo particularly asked the public not to support those who enriched themselves in the guise of serving the country.
"Let us no longer vote for people who have enriched themselves through their supposed service to the country, especially the spouses and families, all occupying government positions, to amass wealth for their families," he said in his homily in a Mass in Pasay City on Sunday, March 7.
"It is already clear as day that it is not service but a form of livelihood for the family," Pabillo added.
The prelate believes political dynasty is also one way to escape accountability.
"Can you really hold accountable your own father, children, spouse, whom you will succeed in the position?" asked Pabillo.
With the forthcoming election, he said, many of those who will run will again claim they love their country. "How can you say that when you are corrupt? Isn't corruption a form of stealing?" Pabillo said.
Article II Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution states that: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law."