OUR Dearly Beloved People of God,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Notably, the newly elected Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, commenced his inaugural message with the phrase “Peace be with you all!” Peace emerges from the infinite love of God, reflecting the deep longing for such peace that has been yearned for by the Filipino people for the longest time.
As guardians of a diverse faith community, the Ecumenical Bishops’ Forum is moved to offer a message of guidance, encouragement, and hope during this significant milestone of our social engagement. As the midterm elections draw near, we encourage all individuals with strong moral standards and integrity to participate in the voting process, guided by the principles of peace, justice, and the inherent dignity of every person.
In a world marked by conflict, division, and violence—both visible and subtle—we are reminded of Jesus’ words:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.”
(Matthew 5:9)
To vote for peace is an enlightened decision. It is an active, valiant commitment to the values of reconciliation, dialogue, and compassion. It means choosing leaders and policies that uphold human dignity, protect the vulnerable, heal divisions, and build bridges rather than walls.
We encourage every member of the ecumenical faith and wider community:
1. To pray for discernment, clarity, and humility in the voting process.
2. To vote in a way that reflects gospel values—especially care for the poor, justice for the oppressed, and stewardship of creation.
3. To reject rhetoric and traditional policies that inflame hatred, sow division, reinforce political dynasty or promote violence.
Peace is more than the absence of war—it is the presence of justice, mercy, and right relationships. As followers of Christ, let us never grow indifferent. Let us instead raise our voices and cast our votes as instruments of peace in our society.
May the Holy Spirit guide us as we seek the peace of Christ in our hearts and in our nation.
With pastoral love, hope, and prayer
Issued and signed on this day, 11th May 2025
(Sgd.) Bishop Joseph G. Agpaoa
General Secretary, United Church of Christ in the Philippines
Co-chairperson, EBF
(Sgd.) The Most Revd. Nestor D. Poltic, Sr.
Prime Bishop, Episcopal Church in the Philippines
Co-chairperson, EBF
(Sgd.) Bishop Ruby-Nell M. Estrella
Manila Episcopal Area, UMC
Treasurer, EBF
(Sgd.) Bishop Emelyn G. Dacuycuy
Iglesia Filipina Independiente, Diocese of Batac
Auditor, EBF
(Sgd.) Bishop. Emeritus Deogracias S. Iñiguez, Jr., DD
Divine Mercy Shrine, Marilao, Bulacan
Executive Committee Member-at-Large, EBF
(Sgd.) Bishop Ciriaco Q. Francisco, (Ret.)
Manila Episcopal Area, United Methodist Church
General Secretary, EBF