Bishop tells Filipinos: Go out, guard your vote

CATHOLIC Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president and Iloilo Bishop Angel Lagdameo called on the Filipino public Monday to go out and vote but added that they should guard their vote vigilantly.
In a statement, Bishop Lagdameo cited the saying, "all it takes for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing" and urged Filipinos not to lose hope in the democratic system.
"We have proven it time and again, from one election to another that the 'ballot' is the ultimate expression of 'people power'," the bishop said.
He added that "a clean, honest, accurate, meaningful and peaceful" 2007 election was possible, especially with the help of poll watchdogs and volunteers. He noted the process was part of nation-building.
"We need the Lord’s help in this important event. May the hand of God stop the evil of electoral violence, cheating and corruption from getting in control of our electoral process. Let us accompany our election and counting of votes with prayer and watchfulness," he said.
He further warned, "Do not allow anyone to violate the sanctity of your ballot. Vote according to your conscience. Vote freely whom you believe can advance the common good of this country. Protect your vote from being tampered with. Remember: the candidate who wins by cheating will also govern by cheating. The citizens who sell their votes for any price deserve the government they install with their votes."
Filipinos are set to troop to the polling places by early morning to cast their votes in the local and national elections.