by Xander Cipriano
As the upcoming national elections draw near, the discussion of Church involvement in politics became spotlighted as several church leaders and organizations expressed their opinions and support.
"So, in one way or the other, if the priest would say something about politics and the authorities would argue that he’s not respecting the separation of the Church and State, then that is barking at the wrong tree"
The issue of the involvement of the Church in politics in the Philippines has created a series of discussions and debates between people from different walks of life. Some of the issues raised include the constitutional provision on the separation of Church and State and political endorsements from church leaders.
However, as the upcoming national elections this May in the country draw near, several church members and organizations increasingly expressed their diverse political opinions and even declared their support for specific candidates.
What does the “Separation of the Church and State” truly mean?
Article II, Section 6 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states “The separation of Church and State shall be inviolable.” But what does constitutes the separation of Church and State mean?
In an interview with Usapang Simbayanan, Fr. Danny Pilario, a theology professor from St. John’s University, explained that this section is given to state authorities and the State is commanded to follow it.
Pilario pointed out two key points about the said separation: the State is not allowed to establish a single religion, and everyone has the freedom to express their own beliefs.
"So, in one way or the other, kung sasabihin na ang pari ay nagsasalita tungkol sa politika at sasabihin ng mga nasa authority na that’s not respecting the separation of the Church and State, that is barking at the wrong tree," the theologian added.
(Translation: So, in one way or the other, if the priest would say something about politics and the authorities would argue that he’s not respecting the separation of the Church and State, then that is barking at the wrong tree)
On the other hand, Redemptorist priest Fr. Amado “Picx” Picardal said in his column that the separation is about what the State is barred from doing, not the Church.
"This allows for religious pluralism. The free exercise of religion is recognized and guaranteed. The state cannot interfere in the affairs of the Church or any other religious groups," Picardal said.
He also said that the principle of the separation of the Church and State was a “reaction” to its union during the Spanish rule in the country, as expressed in Patronato Real or royal patronage.
“The Patronato was based on the principle of the State choosing an official religion, and the State's obligation to support such religion. This means providing financial support for the clergy, the building of churches and monasteries, and the defense of the Church against her enemies,” the priest added.
Can church leaders promote political candidates?
In an interview with The Press Room, Fr. Edwin Gariguez, social action ministry director for the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan, said that there is a need to take a closer look at what the current situation needs.
"Yung katanungan kung dapat (bang) mag-endorso ng kandidato o hindi ay maituturing ba itong partisan politics. ‘Yun ‘yung isang gray area na kinakailangang linawin,” Gariguez said.
(Translation: The question on whether endorsing a candidate is considered partisan politics or not is a gray area that should be clarified.)
While it is stipulated in Canon Law 285.3 that clerics are prohibited to assume or run for public offices, Pilario said that there is an “exception” to the rule in terms of endorsing and supporting political parties.
As pointed out by the professor in Canon 287.2, “They (clerics) are not to have an active part in political parties and in governing labor unions unless, in the judgment of competent ecclesiastical authority, the protection of the rights of the Church or the promotion of the common good requires it.”
Fr. Danny clarified the said exception by giving examples such as a politician who promotes extrajudicial killings, and the recurring “payments” done by Filipinos due to corrupt dictatorship.
Additionally, Pope Francis urged everyone to promote politics not only for the people but with the people.
"In ‘Let Us Dream’, I call this a politics with a capital P, politics as service, which opens new pathways for the people to organize and express itself"
"In ‘Let Us Dream’, I call this a politics with a capital P, politics as service, which opens new pathways for the people to organize and express itself," the Pope added.
Meanwhile, several church leaders and organizations have expressed their support for candidates for the upcoming national elections this May.
On February 10, the Kalookan Laity for Principled Politics submitted their decision to Kalookan Bishop and Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Pablo Virgilio David regarding their support for the candidacies of Vice President Leni Robredo and Senator Kiko Pangilinan, and their senatorial slate.
The Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul also announced their support for the Robredo-Pangilinan tandem.
As of press time, other candidates have yet to receive support from other church groups or denominations in the country.
Why does the Church's opinion matter in this upcoming national elections?
In an interview with The Press Room, Fr. Andiy Egargo, a professor at the Nativity of Our Lady College Seminary said that shepherding is an important role of a priest.
"Syempre kung gagabayan [ang mga tao], ito yung mga pang-araw-araw na ginagawa natin… ‘yung mga politikal na bagay, kasama ‘yan sa mga gawain ng isang pari," Fr. Andiy added.
(Translation: Of course, if people will be guided, these include the everyday activities. The political things, it’s also part of what a priest does.)
Fr. John Era, a Vincetian priest and professor at the St. Vincent School of Theology recognized his responsibility as a priest to influence and guide others, especially when choosing the right candidate to vote.
"As a church leader, I acknowledge my role to strengthen others’ faith to fight for what is right"
"Bilang isang pinuno sa Simbahan, nakikita ko ‘yung role na dapat palakasin ko ‘yung loob ng mga tao na lumaban para sa tama," Fr. John said.
(Translation: As a church leader, I acknowledge my role to strengthen others’ faith to fight for what is right.)
Moreover, Fr. Edwin quoted an excerpt from Pope Francis’ homily in 2013 that can, perhaps, serve as a reminder for everyone on who to pick during elections.
"Those who govern 'have to love their people,' because 'a leader who doesn’t love, cannot govern – at best they can discipline, they can give a little bit of order, but they can’t govern,' the Pope said.
As of writing, the CBCP is currently crafting its pastoral statement for the upcoming elections. It is expected to be released before the end of February.
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