Manila archbishop won’t endorse 2025 poll bets

MANILA, Philippines —  The Archdiocese of Manila will welcome candidates in the May 2025 midterm elections, but no endorsement will be made.

In an interview over Radio Veritas, Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula said he is willing to meet with candidates running for public office, but mainly to provide them spiritual guidance.

“The Archdiocese of Manila will receive poll bets but will not endorse their candidacy,” Advincula said. “We will give spiritual guidance to those wanting to lead our country.”

If Advincula is photographed with a candidate, he said this should not be misconstrued as an endorsement by the Catholic Church.

“Anybody can freely seek the blessing of the archbishop,” the Manila Archdiocese said.