The Catholic bishop of Puerto Princesa in the province of Palawan called on the faithful to think of the “common good” ahead of a plebiscite that aims to divide the province into three.
Bishop Socrates Mesiona told the people in a pastoral statement that the province’s future depends on their votes.
He called for “circles for discernment” to discuss the “very important matter because it has a big impact on our lives in the future.”
The bishop said voters should also think about the plebiscite’s impact on the environment, the indigenous peoples, and the poor communities.
Bishop Mesiona has earlier released a “voter’s guide” detailing the pros and cons of dividing the province.
The prelate reminded the people of their “great duty to know, reflect, and discern the true implications” of the plebiscite that will be held on March 13.
On April 5, 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte signed a law dividing Palawan into three provinces that will be named Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental, and Palawan del Sur.
The provinces will be created upon approval of a majority of voters in a plebiscite that excludes residents of the city of Puerto Princesa.
The plebiscite was initially scheduled in May 2020 but was suspended due to the pandemic.
