
Sent from above? How faith matters in poll decisions
THE GROWING influence of secularization poses a threat to the authority of churches worldwide as some groups question traditional values inspired by religious ideals while calling for freedom of choice.
However, in a deeply religious country like the Philippines – which has a constitution that guarantees the separation of church and state – faith is seen to play a crucial role in practically every aspect of the lives of its citizens, including choosing their next leaders.
In the case of Filipinos, religion and politics are not separated, according to Asst. Prof. Ma. Zenia Rodriguez of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) political science department.
“It is safe to say yes it may. Religion continues to play a role in influencing the faithful, and this may extend as ...