CBCP PASTORAL STATEMENT ON ELECTION 2004
NATION-BUILDING THROUGH ELECTIONS
Elections are a crucial moment in our continuing
task of nation-building. They are a “timely opportunity
to transform society by electing wise, capable and upright leaders.” (Oratio
imperata) It is time when we can institutionalize further
People Power through the informed and responsible choice of local
and national leaders by millions of Filipinos here and abroad.
Despite disturbing talk of massive frauds and
unconstitutional measures being contemplated by various political
groupings, we assert once more that the vigilance and concerted
action or ordinary citizens would be the best guarantee of maintaining
honest, orderly and peaceful elections. Are we ready to defend
our democratic way of life through the constitutional process
and the rule of law?
It is in this light that we emphasize the importance
of safeguarding the election process. We highly endorse citizens’ groups
such as PPCRV, NAMFREL, and others to work closely with COMELEC,
the military and PNP and public school teachers in maintaining
a neutral and non-partisan role in ensuring the electoral process.
We also note that the voters’ list in many places has not
yet been made available by COMELEC and neither has the supply
of indelible ink been assured. Will this problem be solved before
election?
The electoral process is also a time when we can
state that we cannot be neutral against corruption in its various
forms, e.g. vote-buying and vote-selling, taxation by the NPA
of olitical candidates and ordinary citizens, misuse of public
finds, etc. This fight against corruption is a gospel imperative.
Even as we focus on election-day itself, we also
remind voters of their right and duty before elections to discern
and choose candidates based on certain criteria. At least three
basic criteria are to be considered:
First, is the candidate a person of competence,
e.i. in terms of leadership experience, professional qualifications,
and record of governance?
Second, is the candidate a person of conscience,
e.i. with personal integrity, transparency, accountability, and
respect for human rights?
And Third, is the candidate a person of commitment
to a vision and program of action on key issues such as family
and life, environment, illegal drugs and gambling, justice, peace
and order, poverty alleviation, education, etc.?
Beyond elections, there is the greater challenge
for all citizens: to continue monitoring winning candidates in
order to ensure transparency, accountability and people empowerment
for good governance. We have been praying for clean elections,
we continue to pray and work for reconciliation and the solidarity
that is essential to nation-building.
“So let us not grow weary in doing what
is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give
up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for
the good of all.” (Gal. 6,9-10)
For the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
the Philippines
+Fernando R. Capalla, D.D.
Archbishop pf Davao
President, CBCP
April 21, 2004
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