No politicking allowed in Maleldo rites

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- No “politicking” or political activities would we allowed here during the “Via Crucis” (Way of the Cross) where the passion of the Christ is re-enacted, officials said.

The Via Crucis is part of the traditional observance of Holy Week in this city and is held on Good Friday in Barangays San Pedro Cutud, Sta. Lucia and San Juan. Some 30,000 local and foreign tourists are expected to watch the rites this year.

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For 2010, however, Good Friday falls on April 2, just seven days after the start of the local campaign period on March 26.

City Councilor and “Maleldo” (Holy Week) executive committee co-chairman Jimmy Lazatin said any politicking or any form of political activity will not be allowed during the observance of Maleldo even if it is campaign time.

“The observance of Holy Week here, especially Good Friday, would and should always be solemn. That we assure our visitors and constituents,” Lazatin said, reiterating his statements made during the Maleldo press conference at Heroes Hall.

He said although he and Maleldo chairman Marni Castro are candidates themselves, they would lead the way in making sure no political advertisements and campaign materials would be posted along and within the three “crucifixion” sites.

“We would personally lead in removing any political advertisement along and within the Via Crucis areas. Maleldo shouldn’t have any political color. There would be no exemption on this,” he said.

But Lazatin said that candidates in the May 2010 elections could join the observance of Maleldo and could always come “incognito.”