Church-based movement urges voters not to be 'indifferent' as elections will affect all


The Dilaab Foundation and the Caritas Philippines called on voters not to be indifferent in the upcoming May 2022 elections as everyone's future and freedom are at stake.

A teacher at Dona Aurora Quezon Elementary School in San Andres Malate, Manila on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, ensures that vote-counting machines (VCMs) are secured in preparation for the May 9 polls. (ALI VICOY / MANILA BULLETIN)

In a joint statement, cited the latest Pastoral Letter from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), which calls on voters to choose wisely.

"We are also reminded that each vote is important; so important that it is oftentimes bought and stolen by politicians," it added.

They said that the March 27 pastoral letter, states that: “Let us seek those candidates who prioritize Life and Dignity of the Human Person; protect the Family, Community, and encourage Participation; Defend Rights and fulfil Responsibilities; demonstrate preferential option for the Poor and Vulnerable, uphold the Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers; work for Solidarity; and care for God’s Creation.”

Voters are then called to form circles of discernment where they continue conversations and evaluations of the best candidates. "We are encouraged to diligently seek the truth and not allow ourselves to be overcome by fear," the statement read.

"Let us respond to the call for us to fulfil our responsibilities by being politically involved and discern carefully which leaders and candidates are truly competent and credible, and have the sincere intention to serve for the common good of the country," it further mentioned.