Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula has called on the voting public to study carefully the character of their chosen candidates in the May elections as he advised voters to support those who are pro-God and pro-country.
His Eminence cited the need to vote wisely in order to elect the right leaders who will work for the common good.
"As we prepare for the coming elections, I urge everyone to undergo the process of discernment towards collective active response. This entails immersing ourselves in our socio-political realities and responding proactively in light of the principles of Catholic social teachings,” said Cardinal Advincula over Radio Veritas.
The Church leader highlighted the call of the Holy Father Pope Francis for “better politics” which is focused on the common good. “I am urging the faithful to choose candidates who are pro-God and pro-country and who are ready to serve with all honesty and humility,” he said.
"During this turning point in our nation’s history, may our love for country be an authentic expression of our discipleship in Christ,” the cardinal stressed.
The Manila archdiocese recently launched the Catholic E-Forum as part of the ‘One Godly Vote’ campaign which is being led by Radio Veritas in partnership with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines and the Catholic Media Network. The campaign seeks to guide voters in their choice of the right leaders for the country.
"We particularly pray for our people as we choose our next leaders this coming May. We ask our fellow Filipinos to be ‘maka-Diyos kaya makabayan,’ to discern their choice well and go for leaders who embody and promote the values of the Kingdom of God,” said Cardinal Advincula.