Politicians, voters urged: Reflect, pray

(HOLY WEEK OBSERVANCE)

CEBU, Philippines — In observance of Holy Week, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu (BMSN) renewed its call for political candidates and voters to observe the sacred season with deep reflection, prayer, and reverence for the Church’s solemn traditions.

Fr. Jules Van Almerez, media liaison and spokesperson of BMSN, reiterated the long-standing policy prohibiting the wearing of political campaign shirts during liturgical events or within the basilica grounds.

“Whenever they’re in the Basilica, we would still strongly advise them to refrain from wearing election t-shirts as they shift the focus of the faithful to them instead of the liturgical celebration,” said Fr. Almerez.

He also encouraged all faithful to actively participate in their parish’s liturgical celebrations.

“We also urge them to look for time of silence to reflect on the passion, death, and resurrection of Christ,” he added.

Fr. Almerez called on political candidates to reassess how they can “better serve the last, the least and the lost of society.”

“Like Christ, please reflect how it is to become a servant-leader and emulate His example and humility,” Fr. Almerez emphasized.

Voters, meanwhile, were reminded to use the sacred time of Holy Week for discerning their choices in the upcoming elections.

The Church has firmly stated that Holy Week is not a time for political showmanship.

“Instead, help voters to pray and reflect,” he added.

This advisory from the BMSN aligns with a recent warning from the Commission on Elections in Central Visayas (COMELEC-7). Regional director Atty. Francisco Pobe cautioned candidates that campaigning during Holy Week is strictly prohibited.

Pobe explained that campaigning on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday violates Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code, which penalizes premature or unauthorized campaigning during the “campaign ban” of Holy Week.

The election code stipulates that Holy Week is not included in the official campaign period and should therefore be respected as campaign-free.

Candidates found violating this rule may face disqualification, imprisonment, or other legal sanctions under the election code.

In light of this, BMSN urges candidates to be particularly mindful of their conduct during religious events.

“During the Holy Week, please do not make the various celebrations of the Church an avenue for campaign,” said Fr. Almerez.

Amid the noise of the election season, the Church invites everyone to pause and return to the true essence of Holy Week — sacrifice, service, and the renewal of the Holy Spirit. — (FREEMAN)