This document discusses civic responsibility and involvement in elections. It emphasizes that citizens have a duty to contribute to the good of society through their participation in the political process. Voters are expected to follow their conscience when choosing public officials who will serve the common good. When evaluating candidates, voters should consider whether they demonstrate strong character, conscience, competence, compassion, and commitment. There are also three basic criteria that should be used: whether the candidate has relevant leadership experience and qualifications, has personal integrity and respects human rights, and is committed to addressing important issues facing the nation.

1. Civic Responsibility & the
Elections
2239 It is the duty of citizens to contribute along with the civil
authorities to the good of society in a spirit of truth, justice,
solidarity, and freedom. The love and service of one's country
follow from the duty of gratitude and belong to the order of charity.
Submission to legitimate authorities and service of the common
good require citizens to fulfill their roles in the life of the political
community.

2. 5 Cs:
Character,
Conscience,
Competence,
Compassion,
Commitment

3. THREE WAYS OF INVOLVEMENT
Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J.
• Elections are a time for choice
and decision-making. Voters are
expected to follow their
conscience in choosing public
officials that will serve the
common good, and help in the
development of their community.

4. 5 C’s: that they be men and women of
Character,
Conscience,
Competence,
Compassion, and
Commitment.
Other characteristics have
been suggested: that
candidates be Maka-Diyos,
maka-Tao, maka-Buhay, maka-
Bayan, and maka-Kalikasan.

5. LASER test:
Informal groups of voters are
asked to evaluate candidates
according to:
Lifestyle,
Action/Accomplishments,
Supporters,
Election Conduct, and
Reputation.

10. Human Dignity &
the Unity of the
Human Family
Solidarity
The
Common
Good
Universal Destination
of the earth’s Goods
Participation
Subsidiarity

11. Nation Building Through
Elections
Even as we focus on election-day itself,
we also remind voters of their right and
duty before elections to discern and
choose candidates based on certain
criteria. At least three basic criteria are
to be considered:
First, is the candidate a person of
competence, i.e. in terms of leadership
experience, professional qualifications,
and record of governance? Second, is
the candidate a person of conscience,
i.e. with personal integrity,
transparency, accountability, and
respect for human rights? And third, is
the candidate a person of commitment
to a vision and program of action on
key issues such as family and life,
environment, illegal drugs and
gambling, justice, peace and order,
poverty alleviation, education, etc.?