Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula urged the faithful to pray for peace and reconciliation among the country’s political leaders amid what he described as a "brewing political storm."
In a statement on Wednesday, Advincula called the recent events in the country "disconcerting," emphasizing that many citizens are still struggling with the aftermath of the recent typhoons.
"The brewing political storm that our political leaders are facing has drained their energy to serve those in most need and the neglected," Advincula said.
"I humbly exhort you all to pray for them that they may receive the grace to exercise statesmanship in most trying times so that sobriety may prevail in our land and that political issues and personal interests may not divide the nation," he added.
He further stated that through prayer, they may gain the humility to listen to one another with respect and work together for the good of the country.
The Archbishop of Manila then called on well-meaning political leaders from various sectors of society to do what they can to prevent the escalation of political and personal conflicts.
"Let us all pray for forgiveness and reconciliation, never doubting God's grace and love for His people," he added.
Advincula made the statement in light of the ongoing rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, the two highest officials in the country.
On November 23, Duterte revealed during a virtual press briefing that she had made arrangements for someone to kill President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and First Lady Liza Marcos, should an alleged plot against her succeed.
In response, President Marcos condemned the said statement, emphasizing that he would not let it slide and stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law.
