Elections are coming. If you are a voter, you should know who you are voting for and where they stand, especially when it comes to issues of secularism. Here are senatorial candidate Jack Enrile’s responses on nine important issues, based on GMA News’ Mga Isyu ng Bayan.
Reproductive Health – FOR
“I happened upon this particular stand by accident. Originally, I was not going to vote for the passage of the measure, but having visited several provinces, you get the sense of what is really needed… If we allow people to choose for themselves, it will be step in alleviating poverty and curing all those social ills.”
Sin Tax – FOR
“I voted in favor when they decided to lower (the revenue target). The original figure was P60 billion, especially coming from the northern part of the country. The farmers there will be affected. When they lowered it down to P30 billion, I thought it was a good compromise between the need for a government to raise necessary revenues for its programs and also the need for our leaders to look for ways to supplement the industry.”
Cybercrime – FOR
“I voted yes before there was the take-down provision and before the criminalization of libel. I will not support the criminalization of libel and the take-down provision without due process and a court order.”
Freedom of Information – FOR
“I have supported it from the beginning. I signed the petition that came out in broadsheets. It is up to the President to push for it.”
Anti-Political Dynasty – FOR
“I will support depending on the definition and the acceptance of the realities of our culture and the politics here.”
Divorce – FOR
“Let’s start the discussion now. I would venture to guess that a lot of couples are living together now without the benefits of a formal marriage, and the reason for that is that it is very difficult to get an annulment and there is no divorce in this country.”
Death Penalty – AGAINST
“We do not live in a perfect society. Our justice system is an imperfect system.”
Same-Sex Marriage – FOR
“Let’s give everybody a chance for happiness. Let’s not discriminate. If it is your inclination to be happy with a man, why discriminate against that? I have seen in other countries couples of the same sex who have lived very upright lives and raised children.”
Total Gun Ban – AGAINST
“You have a period right now when there is a total gun ban but you still see these crimes. Total gun bans don’t work.”
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Who among the 33 senatorial candidates matches your views best? Politi-ko.com can help you find out. (From the makers of Rollcall.ph)