Denies backing any political contender (Palma)
A fresh spin on the controversy:
The Archdiocese of Cebu Clarifies: No Endorsement for Mayoral Candidates
On May 7, 2025, the Archdiocese of Cebu took a firm stand against political endorsements, denying any involvement in the upcoming midterm elections. The denial comes in response to circulating posters featuring Archbishop Jose Palma with mayoralty candidate Michael Rama, captioned as a supposed endorsement by the Catholic Church.
In a forceful statement released on Wednesday, the Archdiocese demanded the posters be removed, stating unequivocally that Archbishop Palma is not endorsing any political candidate, local or national level. The Archdiocese insists that their leader has not permitted any of his priests to promote or defend political parties or candidates from the pulpit.
When our dear old site, Cebu, attempted to question Rama on campaign day, his motorcade was in full swing.
The Archdiocese asserts two primary reasons for the poster's removal. First, they fear the posters could subtly sway parishioners, possibly contravening Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code. Second, the unauthorized use of Archbishop Palma's image for campaign purposes violates the Data Privacy Act (R.A. 10173).
The statement was signed by lawyer Rev. Fr. Domingo Delos Angeles, Jr., the legal officer of the Archdiocese of Cebu, and approved by Palma himself. In closing, the Archdiocese urged the public to pray for a peaceful and honest midterm election.
It's important to note that while Archbishop Palma did officiate a wedding for former Mayor Rama, this does not necessarily indicate political support for Rama's candidacy. The Archdiocese consistently reiterates its stance on neutrality in political matters.
- Despite the circulating posters suggesting an endorsement, the Archdiocese of Cebu denies any involvement in the 2025 midterm elections, stating that Archbishop Jose Palma is not endorsing any mayoral candidates.
- The Archdiocese maintains that their leader, Archbishop Palma, has not allowed any of his priests to promote or defend political parties or candidates from the pulpit, a policy that aligns with their commitment to neutrality in politics.
- The Archdiocese has officially requested the removal of the posters featuring Archbishop Palma and mayoral candidate Michael Rama, citing concerns about potentially swaying parishioners and violating the Data Privacy Act (R.A. 10173).
- In the realm of policy-and-legislation and general news, the Archdiocese of Cebu maintains its stance on neutrality and upholds its responsibility to promote honest and peaceful elections.
- It is crucial to clarify that Archbishop Palma officiating a wedding for former Mayor Rama does not automatically equate to political support for his 2025 mayoral candidacy, as the Archdiocese consistently emphasizes its neutrality in political matters.
