Sunday, March 25, 2007 Cardinal supports ‘laser’ guideline for elections
CEBU Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal endorsed the guidelines that a church-based organization set for voters to follow in choosing their candidates in the May 14 elections.
Dilaab Foundation Inc. urged the public not to vote for undesirable candidates by using a decision-making guide that may be called “laser” vision.
Laser stands for lifestyle, action, support, election conduct and reputation, which Cardinal Vidal said can help voters screen “anti-life” candidates, or those involved in illegal drugs and corruption.
“We don’t choose the lesser evil. It’s true people deserve their government, but our answer to that is that the person deserving our vote is either not yet (around) or is not running,” said Fr. Carmelo Diola of Dilaab.
Dilaab aims to challenge the notion that elections are useless because many candidates have dubious motives in running for office.
It recently launched nationwide its “Huwag Hayaang Lumusot Kandidatong Shaburakot” program.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) earlier called on the people to “never lose the hope that creates energy and the love that creates responsibility.”
The campaign against “shaburakot” is Dilaab’s answer to the challenge.
According to Dilaab, voters should check whether a candidate has unexplained wealth; how he will fight corruption and keep his integrity; whether he is close to corrupt individuals and drug lords; if he buys votes and if he uses drug money for his campaign; and if he was involved in corruption or in drug issues.
Dilaab’s support groups conduct lectures in barangays, held a “Bisrock” concert at the Mabolo Parish parking lot, and will have a “shaburakot” mascot competition next month. (AIV)
