DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / December 1) – Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles clarified that his pastoral message issued on November 29 aimed to “guide the conscience of our faithful,” stressing that the Church’s role is “not to endorse – the removal of one, the succession of another – political individuals.” Responding to queries about whether his statement endorsed calls for President Marcos to resign and Vice President Sara Duterte to succeed, Valles affirmed, “Of course not. It is not an endorsement.” He noted that people often interpret statements through their own expectations. Valles reiterated his call for Catholic faithful to stand for truth, justice, and the common good rather than siding with any political party or personality, emphasizing that conscience, guided by Gospel teachings, must direct both prayer and action. His message included five issues with 11 questions, ranging from the President’s leadership capacity amid allegations of illegal drug abuse to concerns about the Vice President’s potential succession. The Archbishop’s message drew mixed reactions, with some praising his courage while others, like Dionysius Agustinus and Jun Magno, critiqued it for not addressing broader corruption and political dynasties. Dr. Jean Lindo of Panalipdan Southern Mindanao acknowledged the Archbishop’s authority but expressed dissent on certain points, particularly regarding the President’s alleged addiction. The STOP Corruption Alliance welcomed Valles’ call for accountability but noted that succession by officials “equally marred with corruption” undermines integrity. The Alliance’s Sunday rally in Davao City condemned the Marcos-Duterte administration as the “king and queen of corruption.” (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)
