By RONALD RAMAO
Diocese of Malaybalay, Bukidnon
MALAYBALAY, Bukidnon.—A Roman Catholic priest is running for governor in this province.
Fr. Diosdado F. Tabios has joined the gubernatorial race, promising the preservation of natural resources, renewed governance, economic progress and promotion of peace and unity for Christians, Muslims, Lumads and other tribal groups.
But the diocese is not supporting Tabios’s quest for public office.
In the Diocesan Pastoral Assembly held in February, Bishop Honesto Ch. Pacana told the 450 participants that Tabios was not being endorsed by the clergy.
He added the priest’s ministerial duties are being suspended. These duties include celebrating holy mass and administering confession.
Tabios informed his fellow priests about his intention to run for Bukidnon governor last November. In reply, the bishop told Tabios about the consequences of his political plans on his ministry.