Archbishop sad but respects Panlilio's decision to run

ANGELES CITY — San Fernando Archbishop Paciano “Apung Ceto” Aniceto said he is saddened by the decision of priest-turned-politician Eddie “Among Ed” Panlilio to run as governor in the 2013 political race here against incumbent Governor Lilia Pineda.

Aniceto said Panlilio has made a very difficult decision.

“We have to remind him ‘bout two things: his first option is the priesthood and his fidelity to his original promise to the Lord,” Aniceto told Sun.Star Pampanga in an exclusive interview at the Holy Rosary Parish here.

Asked about Panlilio's current status, Aniceto said he has yet to lift Panlilio's suspension.

It could be remembered that Panlilio was placed under suspension since he decided to run in the 2007 elections. The suspension, also seen as a form of dispensation, never reached the Vatican where dispensations are approved by the Pope.

Archdiocese of San Fernando spokesman Fr. Larry Sarmiento told reporters that “Panlilio requested Pope Benedict XVI for dispensation” last October 6, Friday just before he filed his certificate of candidacy (COC).

“The dispensation letter is being prepared by Monsignor Edgar Pangan and it will soon be forwarded to Among Ed for his signature. Then the archdiocese will forward it to the Vatican for approval of the Pope himself,” Sarmiento told reporters.

If approved, Panlilio's “priestly powers” would be removed but Panlilio would still remain in essence a priest bound by his vows.

Panlilio, supported by President Benigno Aquino III, will run with Liberal Party vice-gubernatorial candidate Amalia Tiglao-Cayanan against reelectionist Gov. Lilia Pineda with her son Dennis Pineda as runningmate.

Panlilio's trusted lieutenant and former provincial administrator Vivian Dabu will run against former president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for the second district congressional seat.