Youths idolize stars more than priests

Young Filipino Catholics admire showbiz celebrities more than they do priests, according to a poll conducted by the Roman Catholic Church.

Of the 1,070 respondents aged 13 to 39 polled in a study entitled "National Filipino Catholic Youth Survey," one-third or 38.3 percent said the person they admire most is either their mother or father, although most said they are close to their mothers.

Next admired most by Catholic Filipino youths is their friend with 14.9 percent, followed by showbiz celebrities at 11.2 percent. Only 5.8 percent said priests or Church personnel had the most influence in their lives.

Although parents are the most admired, most of the poll respondents said they would rather consult their friends before making important decisions. Less than one percent of youths surveyed said they would consult their local priest.

However, 53.1 percent claimed the first thing they do is pray when faced with problems.

Opinions were almost evenly split when respondents were asked what they believe is a good source of a rounded personality — 58.5 percent said a good family background while 51.5 percent cited deep spirituality.

However, 38.9 percent of respondents admitted having problems with the family, particularly their parents.

About a third also believed that domestic violence is one of the most common problems confronting society. Most or 74.2 percent cited illegal drug use.

The Philippines is Asia’s bastion of Christianity, with over 80 percent of its population belonging to the Roman Catholic Church.