Pinoys urged to translate opinions into votes

Filipino priests based in the United Kingdom are urging overseas Filipinos to translate their opinions expressed in social media into actual votes by casting their ballots at the Philippine embassy in London.

“Overseas Pinoys have used social media to strongly express their opinions about the candidates. It’s time now to translate their opinions into actual votes for those whom they support,” said Fr. Christopher Fajardo SJ.

Fajardo is a doctoral student of philosophical theology at Oxford University. He made the 93-kilometer trip from Campion Hall to the embassy in order to cast his vote. The Jesuit priest has observed a high level of enthusiasm among Filipinos in the UK for the election.

“Many of our countrymen view this election as a way to solve pervading problems in our society. Voting is a necessary first step if this vision is to come true,” said Fajardo, who did pastoral works in Manila, Bukidnon, Rome and London.

Fr. Ricky Montañez of the Augustinians of the Assumption also encouraged members of the Filipino communities he serves “to vote and to vote wisely.”

“I believe that overseas Filipinos could have an impact on this election if they would all come out and let their voices be heard. I encourage those who are here in London to come to the embassy instead of waiting for their ballots to be posted,” he said.

A doctoral student of Heythrop College of the University of London, Montañez stays at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Bethnal Green, London and celebrates Filipino mass at St. Augustine’s Church in Gloucester.

Fr. Cirino Potrido, a Vincentian and head of the Filipino chaplaincy in the Dioceses of Westminster, Southwark, Brentwood, also cast his vote at the embassy.