Garcia Family spending Christmas in the Capitol

CEBU, Philippines - For the first time in their lives, the Garcia Family will celebrate Christmas at the Provincial Capitol tonight with some of their friends.

Tonight, the family also celebrates the birthday of beleaguered Governor Gwendolyn Garcia’s daughter, lawyer Christina Frasco.

Frasco said she plans to celebrate her birthday with her mother and the Cebuanos who stand firm with them against this political persecution.

“My wish is that the truth, the rule of law may prevail, that these difficulties our families and the Cebuanos face right now be guided by our faith, the hope that in the end, the goodness, righteousness and justness and not abuse of authority will prevail,” Frasco said.

Deputy Speaker Pablo Garcia because of the situation, they decided to stay at the office of her daughter.

Pablo earlier said that as a father, he was saddened after his daughter’s suspension was handed down during Christmas time.

He asked his daughter to be strong as justice will triumph in the end.

Family friends are also expected to be with the Garcias tonight at the Capitol.

“Unang Pasko nga nalahi sa tanan. Ilaha gyud gi-timing panahon sa Pasko. Ang akong Pasko ilaha gyud gitukaw,” the teary-eyed Garcia said to her hundreds of supporters who were gathered at the entrance of her office at the Capitol.

Garcia added that all her children, except for Carissa who is still abroad, have decided they will celebrate Christmas at her office.

Garcia is still hoping for the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order against her six-month suspension after she filed the TRO last Wednesday.  It is now pending before the Court of Appeals in Manila.

Despite her pain she said she wishes all the Cebuanos a Merry Christmas and a bright new year.

“Malipayong Pasko ug masanagong bag-ong tuig,” the governor said.  — (FREEMAN)