‘Be discerning against political dynasties,’ bishop tells voters

Bishop-elect Broderick Pabillo of Taytay, chairman of the CBCP Commission on the Laity. RCAM-AOC

By Patricia Julianne Escaño

July 14, 2021

Manila, Philippines

A Catholic bishop urged voters to be “discerning” against political dynasties, saying that it “does not promote good governance”.

Bishop Broderick Pabillo, chairman of the bishops’ Commission on Laity, said that the best possible answer to such a problem lies in the hands of voters.

“What we can do as voters is be discerning. When we know that the candidates are relatives, son, daughter, spouse of the incumbent, let us not vote for them,” Pabillo told Radio Veritas.

The bishop said that political dynasties, which are present at the local and national level, weaken the system of checks and balances in the government.

“How can politicians be held accountable when their successors are related to them?” asked Pabillo. “It is important to have accountability so that there will be no abuse of authority.”

“Also, they protect the same interest together with the same cronies. This cannot result to changes,” he added.

The bishop’s statement comes after a survey showed that Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte and her father, President Duterte, are the top choices for president and vice president, respectively, in the May 2022 polls.

The latest Pulse Asia survey conducted from June 7 to 16, showed that 28 percent of Filipino adults would vote Sara for president, while 18 percent would vote for his father as vice president.

President Duterte earlier said that he is still considering a vice presidential run in next year’s elections.

Sara, on the other hand, also stated that she is now “open” to seeking the presidency.

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