• THERESA MAE DULMAN
San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza has urged the Catholic faithful Nov. 11 to support the “Dapat Isa Lang (D1L)” People’s Initiative, a national signature campaign aimed at passing an anti-political dynasty law.
Alminaza, also the president of Caritas Philippines, said that a nationwide effort targets 7.5 million signatures, with deadlines of Jan. 30, 2027 for a standalone 2027 referendum, and July 30, 2027, to sync with the 2028 national elections.
The campaign needs a combined benchmark of 38,084 signatures, though only 76 signups have been logged, as of Nov. 10.
“The universal Church will observe the World Day of the Poor on Sunday, Nov. 15. Intensifying our D1L information and signature campaign can be a concrete expression of our commitment to hear the cry of the poor, and to address the structures that can limit their participation and opportunity,” Alminaza said.
He requested all parishes, mission stations, basic ecclesial communities, and Catholic schools to set up D1L information desks, especially on Sundays and Aguinaldo masses.
He also asked for dedicated volunteers to guide voters through the sign-up process, while integrating campaign discussions into homilies and community formation sessions.
The Supreme Court cited that 19 of 24 senators, 212 of 254 district representatives, and 71 of 82 governors come from political clans, after the 2025 elections.
Alminaza emphasized reaching out directly to marginal groups, including farmers, workers, indigenous peoples, and the urban and rural poor, to empower their free and informed participation. | TMD
