Cardinal Tagle calls on poor keep dignity, don’t sell vote

April 19, 2019

Manila Archbishop Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle urged the poor to learn to shun money in exchange of their dignity.

Speaking before the community at the Parola Compound in Tondo on Maundy Thursday , Tagle urged the poor faithful to resist the allure of wealth at the expense of one’s dignity.

“I hope that our generation will stop this kind of betrayal, wherein people are sold for materials and money,” said Tagle.

He cited as an example the betrayal of Judas Iscariot, who received 30 pieces of silver in exchange of his loyalty to Jesus Christ.



Such an act, the prelate noted, made Judas wealthy but poor in character.

“In the end, your character is your true wealth and it’s priceless,” said Tagle.

During the election season, incidents of vote-buying and vote-selling are not unusual, especially in poor communities.

Dozens attended the Mass presided by Tagle held at amakeshift tent beside the Pasig River.

He arrived at the area riding an e-trike from the nearby Nuestra Señora de la Soledad Parish Church.

After the liturgical celebration, Tagle joined people and a group of parish volunteers for lunch. DMS