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Less than a year away from the upcoming elections, the country is plied with the aspiring presidents all vying for the public’s attention.

Perhaps one of the most interest grabbing incidents is the declaration of Eddie “Among Ed” Panlilio of his intent to run in the 2010 elections for the highest position in the land – The President of the Philippines.

Among Ed was suspended from his first vocation as a priest when he ran for the position of Pampanga’s Governor during 2007. His bid for the position seems justified however as most of the people have cast their votes in his favor.

Prior to his decision in the presidency bid, Panlilio seems to have evaluated the entire scenario before settling on his final resolution. In a forum during Monday, he commented on the feeling that God wants something more from him.

“I felt God wanted me to go on a higher service.”

Apparently, the higher service entails the running for candidacy in the presidential race for 2010. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has already proclaimed their reluctance in letting any its members join the political sphere. However, Deogracias Iniguez, Chairman of the CBCP Episcopal Commission of Public Affairs has commented that he “respects” Among Ed’s decision, during an interview in a church run radio station.

Earlier the presidential aspirant hopes to be able to return to his first chosen vocation if possible. Whether or not he will be allowed to do so remains unknown. However, Panlilio has also expressed his readiness for all possible consequences, including dispensation from priesthood.

This won’t be the first time a religious leader enters the messy world of politics though, as we all seem to recall another head of church’s attempt to run for the same position a few years back.

2010 elections | among ed | eddie panlilio | eddie “among ed” panlilio pres | higher service | presidential bid