Catholic clergy, lay groups endorse Leni-Kiko

Over 500 Catholic clergy, deacons, brothers, and religious sisters have endorsed presidential aspirant Leni Robredo and her running mate Kiko Pangilinan.

This endorsement from the 'Pari Madre Misyonero Para Kay Leni' group marks a departure from the Catholic Church's traditional stance of not supporting specific political candidates.

The Council of the Laity of the Philippines has also endorsed Robredo's presidential bid, with 11 of its 15 officials deciding to support her.

The Council of the Laity cited Robredo's capability to implement partnerships for the advancement of the people, especially the marginalized, and her unassailable integrity as reasons for their endorsement.

Some officials within the Council of the Laity expressed reservations due to Robredo's stance on same-sex union and the decriminalization of abortion.

This endorsement follows similar support from other religious groups, including the De La Salle Brothers and leaders from Ligaya ng Panginoon.

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), has approved lay groups endorsing candidates, though the CBCP itself has not issued a statement on specific 2022 candidates.