Comelec to poll bets: Don't use Traslacion for campaigning

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday appealed to those running in the May elections not to use the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9 for politics.

"Ayaw natin mahaluan ng pulitika ‘yung observance na iyan," Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez told reporters.

Jimenez said it is not surprising that candidates may want to use the annual Catholic event as "an opportunity to campaign" since it is usually attended by millions "and you can project yourself as a certain type of person" during the event.

"Pero mas maganda kung galangin natin ang tradisyon ng mga Pilipino," Jimenez told reporters.

Jimenez was referring to the annual procession where millions of Catholic devotees go to Quiapo Church in Manila to touch the image of the Black Nazarene which is believed to cause miracles as it has survived fires, natural calamities, and even bombings during the World War 2.

"Mahalaga ito para sa mga Pilipino," the Comelec spokesperson said."It would not be the best thing kung magagamit siya for political purpose."

"Kaya nananawagan ang Comelec na kung puede, let's leave these kinds of observances alone," he added.

The campaign period for Senate candidates will start on February 12 and end on May 11, while the campaign period for those running for local positions is scheduled from March 30 to May 11. Election day will be on May 13.   —KBK, GMA News