Leadership is a Sacred Mission, Not a Privilege: A True Leader is a Servant of God and the People

AS the May 2025 Philippine elections approach, voters are called to exercise their rights with responsibility and moral discernment. A true leader is a servant of God and the people. By upholding the principles of integrity, service, and justice, Filipinos can ensure that their votes contribute to a government that serves the common good and aligns with the moral and ethical teachings of Christ and the Church

Voting with Conscience: A Moral Imperative for the 2025 Philippine Elections. It is essential for voters to reflect on their moral responsibilities. While there are no direct statements from Jesus regarding elections, Catholic teachings provide clear guidance on voting with conscience to uplift the nation. The act of voting is not merely a political exercise but a moral obligation that shapes society and reflects the values of justice, integrity, and service to the common good.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) emphasizes that voting is both a right and a moral duty. In a pastoral letter, the CBCP urged Filipinos to elect leaders who prioritize the common good, particularly the welfare of the poor and vulnerable. They stated, “We must improve the lives of our people, especially the poor and the vulnerable. This is the primary responsibility of a public servant.”

Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, CBCP president, has cautioned against complacency and misinformation in the political sphere. He urged voters to actively engage in politics by supporting candidates with the necessary skills and experience, stating, “Our low regard and inaction to politics will not bring development. Let us not gamble the future of our country.”

Similarly, Pope Pius XII highlighted the gravity of voting, describing it as an act of “grave moral responsibility,” especially when selecting those who will craft laws impacting society’s moral fabric.

Moral Guidelines for Filipino Voters include: First, Vote with Conscience: Make informed choices based on a candidate’s character, competence, and commitment to the common good. Avoid being swayed by popularity or misleading information. Second, Reject Corruption: Do not sell your vote or support candidates involved in dishonest practices. The CBCP warns, “To sell your vote is sinful; to use it to put into power evil men is gravely wrong.” Third, Prioritize the Marginalized: Support leaders who demonstrate genuine concern for the poor, uphold human dignity, and work towards social justice. Fourth, Seek Truth: Be vigilant against disinformation. Bishop David emphasized the danger of lies, noting they can “put the conscience to sleep and can harden us like rocks.” Sixth, Active Participation: Engage in the electoral process not just by voting but also by encouraging others to vote responsibly and by promoting honest discussions about candidates and their platforms. By adhering to these principles, Filipino voters can contribute to building a just and compassionate society reflective of Christian values.

Jesus and the saints consistently teach that leadership is a mission of service, rooted in love, humility, and integrity. Leadership should always be directed toward the greater glory of God and the well-being of the people, especially the marginalized.

The Bible and the Saints speak to us then and now that “Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.” (Mark 10:43-44). Jesus redefined leadership as humble service rather than a position of power and authority.

Authority as a Mission for the Common Good: “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you.” (Matthew 20:25-26). Power should never be abused for personal gain but used to uplift others, especially the poor and marginalized.

Judgment on Corrupt Leaders: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces.” (Matthew 23:13). Leaders must act with honesty and justice, not for self-glorification or personal benefit.

St. Augustine on Leadership as Service and Morality, stated that “A good ruler is first a servant to those whom he commands.” Augustine emphasized that leadership without morality is tyranny. A just leader governs with wisdom, justice, and love for the people.

St. Catherine of Siena on Leadership and Moral Courage says “Nothing great is ever achieved without much enduring.” Catherine of Siena urged leaders to act with moral courage and responsibility, reminding them that they are accountable to God and the people they serve. She believed that those in power must embrace truth, justice, and self-sacrifice in their leadership.

St. Thomas Aquinas reiterated that leadership must be rooted in the common good. “The aim of a just ruler should be to promote the welfare of the people, not personal gain. “Leaders must act with integrity and use their conscience to guide decisions toward justice.

St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) was firm in her belief that leadership is Love in Action. “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” A true servant leader does not seek power but seeks to serve, especially the most vulnerable in society.

St. John Paul II on love for country and selfless service connotes that “A nation that kills its own people is a nation without a future.” He reminded leaders that governance must be based on protecting life, justice, and peace.

Whole Pope Francis on his stand on Power being for Service states that “ If it is not exercised in service, it is corrupt.” He calls for leaders who act with humility, rejecting greed and selfishness.

Archbishop Emeritus Rolando J. Tria Tirona has consistently emphasized the importance of voter education in the Philippines. Following the 2019 elections, he described the Senate race results as “disturbing” and highlighted the need for comprehensive voter education, particularly targeting the youth through Catholic schools, parishes, and youth organizations. He stated, “We must take seriously the voters education beginning with our youths through our Catholic schools, parishes and youth organizations.”

Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, appointed as the national spiritual director of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) in May 2024, has underscored the critical role of lay organizations in safeguarding electoral integrity. During a PPCRV national conference, he delivered an inspiring speech reiterating the necessity for such organizations to protect key national activities like elections. He encouraged active engagement, stating, “We do not lose hope. We engage.”

Both Archbishops advocate for active and informed participation in the electoral process, emphasizing the moral responsibility of voters to choose leaders who prioritize the common good and uphold ethical governance.

Let all of us be reminded on the Moral Principles for Leaders and Voters which include Firstly, Conscience & Integrity: Always act truthfully, avoid corruption, and prioritize the common good. Secondly, Love for the Marginalized: Serve the poor, the oppressed, and those in need. Thirdly, Honesty in Governance: Reject lies, manipulation, and injustice. Fourthly, Selfless Leadership: Lead with humility, not for personal gain. Lastly, Faith in Action: Governance should reflect God’s will being justice, love, and peace.

Heavenly Father, Lord of truth and justice, We come before You in humble prayer, Seeking Your divine guidance as our nation prepares for the upcoming elections.

Through the most holy Divino Rostro, the Face of Jesus, Who reflects Your mercy and love, Grant us the wisdom to choose leaders of integrity, Who will serve with honesty, compassion, and selfless dedication to the common good.

O Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Mother and Patroness of Bicolandia, We entrust our land to your maternal care. Intercede for us, that our people may reject corruption, deception, and division. Guide our hearts and minds to elect leaders Who will uphold the dignity of every Filipino, Defend the weak, and work tirelessly for peace and justice.

Saint Joseph, Guardian of the Holy Family, Model of humility and righteous leadership, Be our guide in choosing servant-leaders

Who will protect the poor, uphold moral values, and serve with integrity. Shield our elections from violence, fraud, and manipulation, That truth and righteousness may prevail.

All saints and angels in heaven, Intercede for our beloved Philippines, That our choices may be guided by faith, wisdom, and love for our country. May our leaders be men and women of courage, Who seek not personal gain, but the welfare of the people, Who listen to the cries of the poor and work for a just and compassionate society.

Loving Father, may this election be a renewal of hope, A step towards unity and a future anchored in Your divine will. Bless our nation with leaders who fear You and serve Your people with humility. May our votes be guided by conscience and truth, And may our nation rise in Your grace and mercy.

We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord, with the prayers of Divino Rostro, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Saint Joseph, And all the saints and angels in heaven AMEN