Our vote is our voice and decision, Virac prelate exhorts

Harampangan 2025 ignited civic dialogue last Monday, April 28, at the Ateneo de Naga University Covered Courts where the Midterm Elections Forum was held. Gubernatorial Candidate Mr. Bong Rodriguez and Congressional Candidates Mr. Noel De Luna, Atty. Nelson Legacion, and Atty. Pito Tria engaged with a live audience of 2,700 attendees and an ever-growing online community, with over 730,000 livestream views. This milestone event stands as a testament to the power of informed participation and democratic discourse in shaping the future of our province. (Source: Archdiocese of Caceres Facebook page)

IN a pastoral letter entitled “Choose what is right: A moral responsibility for Election 2025”, Virac Bishop Luisito Occiano reminded both voters and candidates that “as stewards of God’s creation, we are called to stand for truth, justice and the common good”.

Our vote should reflect our deepest values “Choose leaders who share our values and can bring hope and unity to our communities,” he said. “Choose [those] whom we entrust both our lives and [our] future [to].”

“Seek candidates who prioritize life and [the] dignity of the human person; protect the family, community, and encourage participation; defend rights and fulfill responsibilities; demonstrate preferential option for the poor and [the] vulnerable; uphold the dignity of work and the rights of workers; work for solidarity; and care for God’s creation.”

Nation and others first Occiano also wrote to candidates in his letter. “Strive to improve the lives of our people,” he said, “especially the poor and the vulnerable. This is the primary responsibility

of a public servant.”

His pastoral letter was released 3rd Sunday of Easter. Also reflecting on the Gospel on the 3rd Sunday of Easter vis-a-vis the upcoming elections is the newly ordained and installed prelate of Daet.

In his homily, Bishop Herman Abcede, RCJ emphasized the essence of leadership, i.e., service. He also counseled voters, telling them, “Do not let your vote betray the Lord you claim to love. Discern and pray over your decision.”