Manila: A religious group on Wednesday thumbed down the call for snap elections. In a statement, the Clergy for Good Governance (CGG) said it is not in favor of the proposal of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, which, the latter claimed, is aimed at regaining public trust for the government.
According to Philippines News Agency, the CGG, composed of bishops, priests, nuns, and laity who advocate for good governance, emphasized that the Philippines requires truth, justice, and a conversion of hearts rather than a snap election. They argued that no resignation or political maneuvering could rectify the injustice faced by the Filipino people, and true reform should precede elections.
The clergy insisted that accountability is necessary for those involved in the anomalous flood control projects. They stressed that justice must be delivered to those wronged before seeking new power, urging for accountability and legal consequences for those who have plundered the nation.
The CGG also called for a moral awakening and a return to God, asserting that the solution to corruption lies in a change of conscience rather than immediate elections.
Last Sunday, Senator Cayetano advocated for a snap election for both executive and legislative branches to establish new leadership amid ongoing corruption controversies in government infrastructure projects. However, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairperson George Garcia stated that a law must be enacted before any snap election can be conducted.
In a related development, the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), an election watchdog group, urged voters to remember the controversies surrounding flood control projects during the May 2028 National and Local Elections. They encouraged the public to recall the anger and disappointment caused by the misuse of funds and to hold their oppressors accountable.
The PPCRV highlighted the importance of discernment in choosing leaders, emphasizing that the recent flood control issues have showcased the need for voters to be vigilant. The Church-based group reiterated their commitment to advocating for clean, honest, accurate, meaningful, and peaceful elections.
