Catholic Church

Religious leaders are revered and occupy a unique position of power and influence in the Philippine community. Combine that with the power of mass media, and it makes for a very potent mix.

Spirituality plays a major part in the lives of Filipinos. A majority of them have religious affiliations, with more than 86 percent Roman Catholic, a remnant of the country’s colonial past. Another 8 percent belong to Christian groups, with 2 percent of that belonging to over 100 Protestant denominations, while 4 percent are Muslims.

Given that, politicians seek the endorsements of these religious leaders during elections, an acknowledgement of their influence on a substantial group of voters.

 The Catholic Church-owned Radyo Veritas has played a vital part in the country’s history. It was the channel the Catholic Church used to urge people to gather on EDSA in February 1986 and protect a group of military officials and soldiers who stood up against President Ferdinand Marcos, paving the way for the People Power revolution.