IN a country where the word of God often resonates more powerfully than Senate debates, religious influence continues to permeate Philippine politics. Several bills are struggling to pass the required three readings due to opposition from the Catholic Church. This raises the question: is religion our path to development, or does it hinder our nation-building efforts?
Over 80 percent of the total population in the Philippines is Roman Catholic. While faith offers comfort, community and identity, its influence has delayed much-needed reforms, often labeled as “immoral” by churches. This presents a significant obstacle for laws aimed at protecting people’s rights.
Consider divorce as an example. Spouses enduring abusive and irreparable relationships are often denied the option of annulment. Instead, they face minimal consequences for their abusers, forcing them to endure and uphold the sanctity of marriage and family life. The Philippines and the Vatican City remain the only countries that prohibit divorce. While the majority of our neighboring nations progress into a new era, we remain stagnant, rooted in centuries-old stances.
The same holds true for abortion, the mere mention of which ignites fervent reactions from Catholics, who often cite scriptures as the supreme law. Even the sight of two women kissing can provoke outrage, with verses brandished as condemnation. Are these not the same individuals who preach loving one’s neighbor as oneself? Apparently, this principle seems to apply selectively to neighbors who are heterosexual, married, and discreet in their transgressions. The hypocrisy is striking.
And to compound the issue, the Church enjoys tax exemptions. While the rest of the nation strives for progress, the Church seems to hold us captive in a medieval mindset, compelling us to imagine divine disapproval should we take even a small step towards enacting these laws.
The Philippines requires a more tangible and pragmatic foundation than solely relying on prayers and ancient texts. It is time for Filipinos to look beyond religious doctrine and consider that God, if concerned with our nation’s welfare, is likely unimpressed by our inaction. By all means, pray -- but pray as if it will genuinely make a difference.