Taytay, Palawan Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo has called on the faithful attending the Simbang Gabi to include in their intentions a clean and honest election in 2022.

In a pastoral letter, Pabillo urged the faithful to offer prayers and sacrifices during the nine-day novena masses for the voting public to be able to choose the right leaders for the country as the Philippines and the rest of the world recover from the pandemic.

“The Simbang Gabi is a Filipino tradition that helps strengthen our faith and for us to pray for our country. Let us offer our sacrifices as we attend the masses to pray for our beloved nation. May the voting public safeguard their important task of electing the right leaders for our country,” the Church leader said.

“We will not have a reliable and dependable government if we do not choose reliable and dependable leaders. Let us not vote for someone just because we want to try his leadership skills. Let us examine first his character and his love for our country and his concern for the poor,” the bishops said.

The prelate reminded the faithful to reflect on the Gospel about what a good steward should be and to thank God for all His blessings.

“All of God’s creations and gifts are not only for a few but for everybody. As we share our life, our time, our services, our wealth, the more blessings and gifts we receive from God. As we give, the more we receive. We should never hesitate to share and to give because we can always count on the goodness and generosity of our Lord. His blessings overflow particularly to those who believe and who continue to share their time, talents, and gifts,” Pabillo stressed.

The Simbang Gabi, which began on Dec. 16, will culminate on Dec. 24 with the Christmas Eve mass.