Bishop to Muslims: Reject RH bill

MANILA, Philippines - A Catholic bishop on Monday called on the Muslim community to oppose the passage of the controversial Reproductive Health Bill, saying the proposed measure merely promotes immorality.

"Sana maging ang mga hindi Katoliko na naniniwala sa kasagraduhan ng buhay gaya ng mga Muslim ay sana huwag nilang iboto ang mga pulitikong nagsusulong ng RH bill," Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes told Radyo Veritas.

The bishop made the call after some lawmakers belittled the so-called Catholic vote to pressure legislators to turn down the passage of the RH Bill.

The bishop said he already has priests in his diocese to push for the Catholic vote among the faithful in their respective parishes and churches.

"I already told my priests to tell about that Catholic vote. I strongly support that. This is an important issue and this is a very good test whether the Philippines is a Catholic country or not," the prelate said.

He added that he also advised the faithful not to vote for legislators who have been pushing for the passage of the RH bill.

Meanwhile, Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco also urged Catholics to fight for and protect the sanctity of life and marriage.