CBCP to tackle 2025 polls in plenary assembly

MANILA, Philippines — The 126 members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) will discuss the upcoming May 12 mid-term elections during their 129th plenary assembly in Laguna.

According to the CBCPNews, the official news service provider of the CBCP, the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) has been invited to report on its preparations for the midterm polls.

The PPCRV is the election watchdog affiliated with the Catholic Church.

CBCP secretary general Monsignor Bernardo Pantin also said the prelates would be discussing themes of formation, social action and the Synod on Synodality.

The plenary assembly is a biannual meeting held every January and July. It is the highest decision-making body of the CBCP.

The CBCP is made up of 84 active bishops, 38 honorary or retired bishops, and four diocesan priest-administrators.

Prior to the 129th plenary assembly, the bishops will attend a three-day seminar on “transparency and accountability” within the church.

The Archdiocese of Lipa will host the 129th plenary assembly on Jan. 25 to 27.