The Philippine Online Chronicles

In the Philippines, since the Spaniards set foot on our land, the religious sector, if not directly meddling into state affairs, has flexed it’s muscles to force political leaders into submission. The dogma that religious leaders can interfere in state matters on grounds of morality dates back before the time of Jesus. But it was totally from a different context.

During the Old Testament, Israel’s form of government was “theocracy." God directly ruled the nation of Israel through His prophets or elders (like Moses and Joshua), and later through kings (Saul, David, Solomon, etc.) with the prophets as advisers.

Because religious leaders hold so much power and influence, such practices were carried over even after Israel backslid. Since then, religious leaders have played God even though a theocracy is no longer in place, and this practice was replicated by other nations. As an offshoot of this culture, political leaders have allied with their religious counterpart, and vice versa, to advance their interest.

In the Philippines, we have witnessed on several occasions how the religious sector interfered with political affairs for various issues, from reproductive health to People Power. Likewise, we have witnessed politicians who sought endorsement from the religious sector, a tacit admission that religious groups can be king makers. 

But there are also political leaders who do not wish to be bullied by their religious counterpart. Thus, a conflict emerged. Who should rule over the other? Religion over State or State over Religion?

Allow me to share the stand of Senator Chiz Escudero on the issue, who spoke of his experience during the impeachment of former President Joseph Estrada. This video was taken on November 7, 2009, courtesy of  Noemi Dado, during the bloggers' meeting with the Senator from Bicol.

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Photo & Video by Noemi Lardizabal-Dado. Some rights reserved.