Priest says God wants him to run as Philippine president in 2010

By Barbara Mae Dacanay, Bureau Chief
Published: July 22, 2009, 21:57
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Manila: A Catholic priest-turned-governor in Central Luzon has said God wants him to run for the presidency in 2010.

Pampanga governor Eddi Panlilio said he was willing to give up his priesthood to serve his country and the poor, a local paper said.

"I have every intention to file my candidacy on or before [the] November 30 [filing deadline for candidates for 2010]. I'm ready for all the consequences, including dispensation from priesthood," he said.

Panlilio said this at a forum arranged by the Catholic Media Network in Manila.

"I felt God wanted me to go on [to] a higher service," said Panlilio said.

"There have been groups telling me to run for the presidency and thought I would pray again. After a period of discernment, I said, 'Yeah, God is calling me to run for the presidency.'"

"When I decided to offer myself [for election], I felt at peace. I'm doing this not for me, not for myself," he added.

"I'm willing to give up priesthood that I love so much for a greater love, that is [the] love for [my] country. The heart of priesthood is accepting the love of God in working for other people especially the poor."

When asked if he would consider priesthood again in the event of losing, Panlilio said: "If they would accept me back, yes."

Panlilio said he did not expect the influential Catholic Bishop Conference of the Philippines to endorse his presidential ambitions.
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