Ex-seminarians to Raise Funds for Panlilio

MANILA, July 14, 2009-A group of former seminarians would help raise funds for the campaign of Pampanga Gov. Ed Panlilio should he run for the presidency in 2010.

The Philippine Alliance of eX-Seminarians (PAX) said they would support the priest-turned politician because he stands for a different kind of politics.

According to one of its convenors, Atty. Ricardo Ribo, the governor is exactly the kind of leader that the country needs.

"At the moment only Among Ed personify our advocacy. We are most willing and we should all be willing to do that," Ribo said.

"If he doesn't have the money (to fund his campaign) then those who believe in him should contribute," he added.

Of all the names being floated as possible presidential candidates, Ribo claimed, only Panlilio is not a traditional politician.

"We are looking for somebody who is an advocate of transparency in governance and public accountability because public office is public trust-we think he is qualified at the moment," he also said.

Panlilio is reportedly one of those eyeing to be the country's next president but is yet to make a formal announcement.

PAX has gathered a membership a large following from diocesan and religious seminaries nationwide.

The group is calling on all former seminarians, especially those who are in public service, to respond to their calling, consistent with the PAX guiding principle, "Semper Vocatus" (once called, always called), that a seminarian who may not have been chosen to the holy priesthood is nevertheless called upon to be a living testimony of truth, justice and peace.

"PAX will be an active watchdog against graft and corruption even as it appeals to all former seminarians both in public and private service to take the lead in the restoration of self-respect, decency and integrity," the group said. (CBCPNews)