The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) has called on the Filipino electorate to approach the May 2025 midterm elections as both a democratic exercise and a moral act of discernment, urging citizens to vote for leaders who serve the common good and uphold Christian values.
In a statement issued ahead of the polls, CEAP emphasized that Catholic education plays a crucial role in shaping voters who are deeply committed to democracy and guided by conscience.
“We shall elect leaders who will preserve and protect democracy, and reject those who weaken it through patronage (e.g. ayuda), political dynasty, incompetence, corruption, and authoritarianism,” the association said.
Citing Fratelli Tutti, CEAP described politics as “one of the highest forms of charity,” and said the elections are an opportunity to strengthen democratic principles, uphold the rule of law, and promote transparent governance.
The group also framed the electoral process as a moment of spiritual discernment, calling on Catholic voters to listen with compassion, act with courage, and align their votes with their conscience and Christian teachings.
“We shall vote for leaders who wield power for service, those who can sacrifice personal interests for the common good, those who humbly submit to the authority of God and His people,” the statement read.
In the context of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope, CEAP expressed optimism in the country’s future, especially in the youth and the nation’s leadership.
“Let us pray fervently that this Christ-centered hope, which does not disappoint, will make our beloved country more united, more democratic, more progressive, more peaceful,” it said.
CEAP is the largest network of Catholic schools in the country, with more than 1,500 member institutions engaged in education and formation.
