PCEC Guidelines in Choosing Candidates
30 April 2013

The Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches, the largest network of Evangelical Christians in the country, believes that mature electorate produces good governance. Instead of campaigning and endorsing candidates they have focused on voter education so the people can be discerning in choosing the candidates that should vote for.

They have also mobilized their member churches to watch and pray for HOPE (Honest, Orderly, Peaceful Elections). PCEC recognize the sacredness and the significance of even one vote and call on everyone to have the mindset that even one vote can help change the nation if we vote responsibly. If 52 million Filipino voters stand up for their sacred vote, it would be enough to change our nation. Enlightened and empowered voters are God’s instruments for choosing leaders so that will bring Good Governance.

It is important that we ensure the eligibility of the candidates we vote for, to avoid national consequences. PCEC urges the people to use the "5 K" criteria in choosing a right leader:

1. Kakayahan (Ability to Govern) – They must have the ability to lead.They should be open to changes, and push for them when necessary.(Exodus 18:21- Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.).

2. Karanasan (Experience in Governance) – They should have a good track record in leadership and governance (Proverbs 12:24- The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor.).

3. Kongkretong plataporma (Platform of Governance Programs) – They should be clear with their platforms and have a solid stand on issues concerning their area of jurisdiction (Proverbs 29:18- Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.).

4. Karakter (Character as a Leader) – They should have humility and integrity, prioritizing the welfare of the people (Matt. 7:16-18 - You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.).

5. Koneksyon – They should have trustworthy connections. Do they have the right people they connect with? (1 Cor. 15:33- Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals.)

For more information, contact Bishop Efraim M. Tendero at 913-1658 or e-mail him at info@pceconline.org

 

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