Over a hundred individual Jesuit priests expressed support for presidential candidate Vice President Leni Robredo and vice-presidential contender Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, saying that the tandem “display the least self-interest” and “are most capable and morally credible” to promote the truth.
In a statement, the individual Jesuit Priests said that the coming election is a chance to redefine the Filipinos’ lifestyle, choices, reclaim aspirations, and redirect the path of each one’s lives.
“We see this election as more than just an exercise of partisan choice. We see this election as a graced and fresh turning point to redefine ourselves,” the Jesuits said.
Meanwhile, the Jesuits likewise denounced the spread of fake news in various social media platforms as well as the historical revisionism and distortionism that “falsely glorifies” the Martial Law.
“We denounce continuing disregard for due process and the persecution of critical voice. We lament the dismal response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic that impoverished our people,” they added.
In assessing the national and local candidates for the upcoming election, the Jesuits “rejected” those who are tainted with corruption, those who have taken advantage of the poverty of the people, and those who have an “unclear” roadmap to economic development.
Instead, they opted to vote for candidates who are God-fearing, those who promote the welfare of the poor, and those who will commit to preserving the environment and natural resources from “further exploitation.”
“We believe that VP Leni and Senator Kiko display the least self-interest and are most capable and morally credible to promote truth and social justice, protect our democratic principles and freedoms, and pursue our vision for our nation,” they said.
Furthermore, the Jesuits urged the public to “choose truth over falsehood, compassion over coercion, and right over might.”