The framers of the 1987 Constitution made it clear the stance of the people with regard to the separation of Church and State. Article II Section 6 provides “The Separation of Church and State shall be inviolable.”
The dichotomy of religion and government until now remains to be a topic of debate with the goal of clarifying to what extent the Church’s hands can reach in running the affairs of the state. The church particularly the dominant Catholic Church has its unequivocal position in most of of the pressing issues of the country. Name it - be it about corruption, elections, poverty, agrarian reform, legislation, criminality and judiciary among others. The voice of domineering church leaders is often given an attentive ear not only by the decision makers but also of the media and the people in general.
In every day that national concerns are scrutinized, the people are divided with the subject about church dipping its fingers in certain issues. Let us recall those days of the heated debate about the death penalty, or perhaps the Reproductive Health Care Bill which is now a law. The influence of the church occupies chapters in our history books. For one, I have no idea if EDSA could have succeeded if not of Cardinal Sin calling the people to rally behind Enrile and Ramos. Such call resulted to the ouster of a dictatorial regime.
On the contrary, going against the beliefs of the church is an uphill battle. It is a tough struggle for leaders in government when they need to go against the position of the church, especially those that are not popular, and advance the programs and strategies what they ought most appropriate. For instance, the late Senator Juan Flavier was castigated by the might of the Catholic leadership as he advocated for the use of contraceptives. The laity even campaigned against his senatorial candidacy. This is among the battles where the church lost is magnificence.
Retired Bishop Oscar Cruz said, “The Church has no option but to correct what is wrong, to denounce what is vicious, to proclaim what is righteous—even in politics, even among politicians.” The barometer of righteousness is another contentious topic nonetheless.
During campaign season, political leaders kneel before the hierarchy of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) which literally releases a list of who to vote for, both in the national and local elective positions to their believers. Getting INC’s endorsement is a make or break political weapon. Defeat is imminent even to the most deserving, competent and ethical candidates should they fail to get INC’s backing. After elections, the dominion of the endorsement of this group will evidently be seen based on the names of political appointees placed in positions of power.
The coming of no less than Pope Francis next month will be a spectacular manifestation of the influence of the church. Slanting of policies to satisfy the demands of the church is anticipated. Nonetheless, there are compelling issues of national significance where the influence of the church becomes very essential. The endorsement of church leaders expedites policy-making and institutionalization of corresponding measures.
We may agree or disagree on these realities. But one thing is undeniable – the might of the pulpit has a significant influence in governance.
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