PBS gives Binay benefit of the doubt

“Only God can attest to that.”

This was the reaction of the head of the Philippine Bible Society (PBS) regarding the report that former vice president Jejomar Binay was now a changed person because of the Bible.

"Concerning his personal and spiritual transformation after reading the Bible, only God can attest to that," Bishop Noel Pantoja said in an interview.

But he said he was already informed by an evangelical pastor that Binay has been regularly studying the Bible.

"God's word is alive, powerful and sharper than any two edged sword penetrating a person's soul, spirit and heart. Any person who hears and applies the truth of God's word will experience renewal and powerful life change," said Pantoja, who is also the national director of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches.

Nonetheless, he said a changed life will be evident through a person's "deeds and actions" and will be noticed by people around him.

As to the different charges that Binay is currently facing due to the alleged overpriced construction of a Makati City Hall parking building, Pantoja said he was sure that the former vice president, like all accused, will be given a chance to answer the charges against him.

"Former VP Binay will be given his day in the courts of the land to answer all charges against him. If he is guilty of any charges or not guilty of anything, then justice or vindication will be afforded to him," he said.

In a recent television interview, Binay said he was now closer to God because he was beginning to know more about Him.