Pumanaw na sa edad na 52 ang dating tagapagsalita ng Commission on Elections (Comelec) na si James Jimenez, ayon sa anunsyo ng komisyon ngayong Miyerkules.

Ipinagluluksa ng Comelec ang pagyao ni Jimenez na nagsilbi umano sa institusyon at bayan na “with integrity, clarity, and utmost dedication."

"Jimenez holds the rare distinction of being the longest-serving and youngest spokesperson in government at the time of his appointment," saad ng Comelec sa Facebook post.

"From July 2006 to September 2022, he was the public face and steady voice of the Commission—explaining complex electoral processes with precision, defending democratic institutions with calm courage, and engaging citizens and media with respect, wit, and transparency," dagdag nito.

Nagsilbi rin si Jimenez bilang Director IV ng Comelec Education and Information Department.

"Throughout multiple electoral cycles, Jimenez stood at the frontlines of public information during moments of intense scrutiny and national consequence,'' ayon sa Comelec.

Noong September 2022, nag-early retirement si Jimenez dahil sa usapin umano ng kalusugan at personal na dahilan.

"He helped bridge the communications gap by pioneering the official social media channels of the Commission, giving the public a direct avenue in conveying their queries and concerns. He championed accuracy, transparency, and accessibility, often translating legal and technical matters into language the public could understand. In doing so, he strengthened public trust in the electoral process and modeled how principled communication can serve democracy," ayon pa sa Comelec.

Inilarawan din ng poll body si Jimenez bilang "trusted colleague and a reassuring presence during some of the most challenging periods in election administration."

"Comelec extends its deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and loved ones. We honor his legacy of public service and his enduring contribution to election transparency and voter education. His voice, professionalism, and quiet courage will be remembered," dagdag nito. — Sundy Locus/FRJ GMA Integrated News