Manila archbishop urges faithful to stay calm, believe in democratic process

FILE PHOTO: Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula. INQUIRER FILES

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula has encouraged the faithful a week after the recently-held national and local elections to stay calm and believe in the democratic process.

“In this time, it would be better for all to stay calm and for everyone to believe in the democratic process,” he said in  Filipino in a video message on Monday.

“Let us continue to love, care, and pray for our country.”

Vote counting continues as of Tuesday, although partial and unofficial tallies indicated a big win for dictator’s son Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as he posted a commanding lead against his rivals in this year’s presidential race.

The May 9 election results, however, sparked protests with demonstrators condemning alleged irregularities in the conduct of the polls.

READ: Black Friday protest launched against alleged irregularities in 2022 polls

Advincula, nevertheless, thanked and lauded the volunteers of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting for their “desire to participate to ensure the integrity of the elections.”

“We become good Christians by being good citizens,” he said.

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KGA