Mindanao bishop to AFP, PNP: Don’t let pols use you as private armies

With just one week to go before the first automated elections on May 10, a Mindanao Catholic bishop reminded police and military forces not to let local politicians use them as private armies. Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus Armamento Dosado issued a pastoral letter lamenting the political violence that are taining the elections, and urging the Armed Forces and the National Police to be vigorous in disarming illegal armed groups and elements. Dosado said the existence of private armies, the proliferation of loose firearms, and political dynasties are obstacles to the growth of a genuine democratic system. “To transform our political order—how imperative this task is today! The election fever is on us!" Dosado said in his pastoral letter, excerpts of which were posted on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines news site. Dosado also asked the candidates to be “honest and sincere in educating the people on the situation of our country" in their campaigns, instead of manipulating people’s perceptions. “You are to present your platforms and convictions rather than attack others," he added. As for the electorate’s role, Dosado reminded his flock that they should exercise wisdom in their choice of candidates, and not to be swayed by surveys. “Do not be swayed by survey results or political advertisements. Follow the dictates of your conscience after a prayerful and collective period of discernment. ‘Winnability’ is not at all a criterion for voting!" he said. Doyado made the remark in the wake of widespread criticism that the propaganda of the leading presidential candidates in recent weeks has deteriorated into unprincipled mudslinging and taking advantage of poll surveys to create a "bandwagon" effect. For his part, Misamis Occidental police provincial head Superintendent Robert Quinery said police forces will remain non-partisan and will not allow themselves to be used by any politician. Quinery clarified that of the 23 people killed in the province since the beginning of the campaign period, only three were identified as politically-related.—JV, GMANews.TV