CBCP denies endorsing senatorial bets ahead of May 12 elections

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Saturday firmly denied circulating social media claims that it has endorsed senatorial candidates ahead of the May 12 elections.

“Please exercise discernment when reading such social media posts,” said CBCP Secretary General Msgr. Bernardo Pantin in a statement posted on CBCP News.

Pantin’s remarks came in response to viral posts featuring a purported letter allegedly signed by CBCP president Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, endorsing a list of candidates for the Senate.

He clarified that the Church does not endorse individual candidates, but rather offers moral and social teachings to guide Catholics in voting responsibly.

“If names of candidates are mentioned in supposed Church endorsements, consider them false or misleading,” he stressed.

The Diocese of Kalookan, led by Cardinal David, also issued a separate statement debunking the circulating letter’s authenticity.

“The letter circulating online claiming to be from the CBCP or Cardinal David is not true,” the diocese said.

The diocese urged the public to verify information before sharing it and remain vigilant against the spread of false information, particularly in the lead-up to the national elections.

The CBCP has consistently maintained a non-partisan stance during elections, encouraging voters to reflect on candidates' track records, platforms, and values in line with Catholic social teachings.—LDF, GMA Integrated News

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