CEBU City Councilor Raymond Alvin Garcia has issued an apology after pictures of his calendar that carries his image larger than Jesus Christ’s drew criticisms online.

The councilor’s photograph sits above the artist rendition of Jesus Christ on the left side of the poster.

Garcia’s message is printed on the right side, and it reads: “Manghinaot ko nga sa kanunay ang Balaang Batang Jesus mag-amping og manalipod kanato sa tanang panahon (I hope that the Holy Child Jesus will always watch over and protect us at all times).”

Beside the image of adult Jesus Christ is the three o’clock prayer.

Garcia attracted criticisms as Jesus Christ’s image is smaller compared to the councilor’s.

Garcia, the majority floor leader, said he did not commission the creation of the calendar. His friend did it.

The son of former Cebu City mayor Alvin Garcia then blamed politics, saying whatever the administration of Mayor Edgardo Labella would do, the critics would always do their best to discredit Labella and his allies.

Copies of the calendar were distributed in December 2020, Garcia said.

Garcia said he understood that his critics made an issue out of the calendar because the 2022 elections are getting near.

Garcia neither confirmed nor denied that he would run as representative for the North District’s seat. (PAC)