GRACE POE's STATEMENT ON THE CBCP PASTORAL LETTER

We take heed of the Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to guide us as we face election day on May 9.

In the midst of the contest for the best platform, debates of ideas and exchanges of tirades, we find in the words of the Church that what matters at the end of the day are the basic human elements of conscience, dignity and abiding faith.

In all these weeks of the campaign, we have shunned mudslinging and have kept the level of debates on issues. Respect should be the rule even among political rivals.

We hope that the voters would be enlightened by the CBCP's reminders. We should vote for the right reasons, because the exercise of the right of suffrage is not only a political right; it is also a moral obligation.

We join all people of faith in asking for God's continued guidance, mercy and protection as we seek a more just, peaceful and progressive Philippines.