SW News: Reminding civilians of their sacred duty to choose the right leaders in the May 9 Philippines general election, more than 1,200 priests and bishops have urged voters to make a moral choice and cast their vote according to their conscience.

The priests and bishops belonging to the Clergy for the Moral Choice (CMC) outfit have asked voters to exhibit their "love of the country" through their votes. Members of the CMC earlier had backed presidential candidate Vice President Leni Robredo and her running mate Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan.

Bishop emeritus Antonio Tobias of Novaliches specifically urged voters not to vote for political dynasties or unscrupulous politicians. During a press conference in Manila on Wednesday, May 4, the bishop stated, "Moral choice means we should not vote for these people." He added, "If we want our country to rise above challenges, let us vote properly. That is the moral choice."

After the presser, some priests marched from Manila Cathedral to the neighboring Commission on Elections headquarters (COMELEC). A Holy Eucharistic celebration was also conducted outside the COMELEC headquarters so that a clean and peaceful election takes place.

Following the announcement of the election dates, the Filipino bishops have been urging the citizens to diligently cast their votes for those who protect their freedom and assure the common good.

Recently, the bishops of the Ecclesiastical Province of Manila had urged the faithful in the province to pray the Rosary in preparation for the election. Meanwhile, the Dilaab Foundation, in collaboration with Caritas Philippines, had organized a prayer and discernment campaign that started on March 30 and will end on the day of the general election.

Major contenders are former senator Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr, the son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, and Vice President Robredo. In pre-election polls, Marcos appears to be in the lead. The prelates had also slammed Marcos’ bid to whitewash the dark days of his father’s rule.