Changing the Philippines One Story at a Time

CEBU, Philippines - Each one of us has our own stories to share regarding the elections. Let me share to you a story that multiplied the rays of hope in my heart.

Members of the Dilaab Foundation who were involved in the Circles of Discernment for Elections recently met at the Our Lady of Fatima Parish in barangay Basak, Mandaue City. The meeting was the group’s first after the May elections so naturally, everyone had the chance to share election stories.

The Parish Pastoral Council, headed by president Pat Cabilan and members Gladys Alfeche and Dolly Trinidad shared stories with our group, composed of Fr. Melo Diola, Tony Pineda, Teresa Tejero, Gladys Ceniza and Ronald Panugaling.

The Parish Pastoral Council of the Our Lady of Fatima Parish is composed of catechists, chapel leaders, zone leaders and parishioners. They have gone to 49 chapels (all belonging to their parish) giving Voter’s Values Formation and the Nominal Group Technique. Last May 4 was the culminating activity of their VVF, which is a caravan and the “Vote God” launch. The different barangay zones from the 49 chapels participated in the activity, bringing with them colorful placards expressing their election concerns.  The placards were displayed outside the parish even after the elections for the people to see.

This created awareness of the people concerning the reality of vote buying. In fact, there was an incident wherein a good number of families were offered money in exchange for their votes but they refused the said offer.  A mother, who was active in chapel activities, gave back the money that her daughter accepted on her behalf. She explained to her daughter that if they sell their votes, it is not only their family who will be affected but also the future generation.  

The activity has truly provided an avenue for discernment on the part of the voters and the candidates, as well.

As I was sharing this to my brother, he said to me, “Pwede man diay na no?” He was awed with the fact that, yes, it can be done.

Let’s change the Philippines one story at a time. How about you? What is your election story?