Politics must be rooted in shared responsibility and vigilance against forces that undermine the common good, Caloocan Archbishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David said.
In an interview with the Standard, David lamented the negative way politics is often perceived.
“I am saddened when people speak of politics in a purely negative way. When we say ‘politician,’ we immediately equate it with ‘thief’ or patronage-driven leader,” he said, noting that such views do not help the public.
He added that this mindset discourages capable individuals from entering public service.
“The Church has always encouraged lay people to enter politics—but the right kind of politics. The wrong kind is patronage politics, and that is what dominates in our country,” he said, criticizing entrenched practices such as the culture of dole-outs or “ayuda.”
In a recent homily, David stressed that corruption and immorality stem from the human heart and run counter to the divine call to goodness and humility.
“Let us not be deceived. (Politicians) are not masters or bosses. They are stewards. They hold positions because they were entrusted with them,” he said, urging resistance to the temptations of power.
He also called on Catholics to promote transparency and accountability by becoming active and engaged citizens.
“Governance cannot be left solely to government officials. The temptation to abuse power is great when the people do not participate,” he said.
