CBCP Urges Voters to Form Circles of Discernment and Use 'LASER' Test

'The results of the upcoming 2022 Election will affect all of us'

THE CATHOLIC Church, through the latest Pastoral Letter from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), calls us to choose wisely.

We are also reminded that each vote is important; so important that it is oftentimes bought and stolen by politicians. We cannot be indifferent while our freedom and future are at stake.

Taken from its March 27 pastoral letter, the CBCP says: “Let us seek those candidates who prioritize Life and Dignity of the Human Person; protect the Family, Community, and encourage Participation; Defend Rights and fulfil Responsibilities; demonstrate preferential option for the Poor and Vulnerable, uphold the Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers; work for Solidarity; and care for God’s Creation.”

So we are called to form our own circles of discernment where we continue our conversations and evaluations of the best candidates. The CBCP recommends the following:

1. Engage in thoughtful dialogue with others never forgetting to respect one another.

2. Use the LASER Test in assessing candidates. LASER stands for Lifestyle, Action, Supporters, Election Conduct, and Reputation. It is a very effective tool in identifying which candidates are good, God-fearing, and place the welfare of the nation above their personal interests.

3. Continue with our Voter’s Education and Voter’s Empowerment.

4. Uphold and never compromise our moral principles in political engagements and nation-building.

5. Be on guard against lies, evil, the suspicious, and those who take advantage of the weak and vulnerable.

6. Demand accountability and transparency from the candidates, our leaders, and ourselves.

7. Continue to pray for a peaceful and successful May 2022 Election.

We are encouraged to diligently seek the truth and not allow ourselves to be overcome by fear. Taking inspiration from Ukraine who showed their exemplary love for their country through their courageous defence of it and their freedom, let us also protect our freedom and ensure the common good.

Pope Francis invites us all towards a renewed appreciation of politics as “a lofty vocation and one of the highest forms of charity, inasmuch as it seeks the common good.”

Let us respond to the call for us to fulfil our responsibilities by being politically involved and discern carefully which leaders and candidates are truly competent and credible, and have the sincere intention to serve for the common good of the country.