A Philippine cardinal called on Catholic voters "not to be mesmerized" by promises of "change" by candidates seeking the country's top post.
Cardinal Orlando Quevedo of Cotabato said what the country needs is "profound" change in mind, behavior, and values.
"Sadly, a candidate who promises change could have the same values and behavior that require change," said Cardinal Quevedo.
He called on Catholic voters to apply their moral and religious values when they cast their ballot in local and national elections on May 9.
"Do not be mesmerized by surveys and claims of change by any means. Follow the road of the Christian disciple, faithful to the Lord Jesus and to the teachings of his church," the cardinal said.
The cardinal's statement on the 2016 elections was addressed to Catholics in his archdiocese.
He urged voters to support candidates who have an option for the poor and those with moral integrity or someone "that is not tainted by corruption, unexplained wealth, and properties, and enrichment in office."