Former Senator and senatorial candidate Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan secured the blessing of Dagupan-Lingayen Archbishop Socrates Villegas, one of the highest-ranking and most influential leaders of the Catholic Church in the country.

Before kicking off the second day of his Luzon Caravan on Friday, Pangilinan met with Archbishop Villegas at the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Dagupan City, receiving both a blessing and spiritual guidance just three days before the midterm elections.

He was also anointed by Most Reverend Fidelis B. Layug, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan.

“I believe we’ve done everything we can. Now we leave it all in God’s hands. It’s all up to Him now, and the decision rests with the people,” Pangilinan said.

“I’m running for our fellow Filipinos who still believe there is hope for the Philippines. We want to prove that those who play fair can win, and those who are honest can win — with the help of the people,” he added.

The former senator expressed confidence that Pangasinan, a province that has consistently backed him in his previous three Senate bids, would again deliver strong support in the 12 May elections.

“I hope the trust you gave me before will be given again. In my three terms that you elected me, I never betrayed that trust. You won’t hear of any corruption cases involving me in my 18 years of service,” he said.

Meanwhile, Pangilinan made Tarlac one of the final stops in the homestretch of his Senate campaign on Friday.

Supporters welcomed Pangilinan’s Luzon caravan at the Pangasinan welcome arch in San Manuel, Tarlac. He then proceeded to MC Plaza, in front of the Tarlac Provincial Capitol, before making a stop at Capas Municipal Hall.

Earlier, Pangilinan received endorsements from Rep. Christian Yap and local government officials of Tarlac City.

He had also visited Tarlac in February and April to personally appeal for the support of Tarlaceños in the upcoming 12 May elections.