Comelec chief asks spiritual guidance from Cardinal Tagle

FILE/ Comelec Chair Andres Bautista. (PNA PHOTO)

MANILA, Aug. 14 — Amid the controversies hounding him, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Juan Andres Bautista admitted that he has sought the help of one of the highest Church officials in the country.

During the agency’s flag ceremony Monday morning, Bautista said he asked guidance from many people, including Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.

“Pati si Cardinal Tagle tumawag sa akin at ako’y humingi ng tulong para tama yung aking magiging discernment kung ano ang dapat gawin,” he said.

With this, an emotional poll body chief also told employees that their undying support is the main reason why he is holding on to his post.

“Hindi naman mahirap na ibigay yung position o bumaba sa position eh. Hindi naman problema yun eh. Ang problema ko talaga na mawala ay ang COMELEC family mula sa aking buhay,” said Bautista.

He added, “Kasi talagang, over the years, you have shown sincere, genuine care and affection. And perhaps that is what is also making my thought process difficult.”

Bautista ended his speech by asking for more prayers for him and his family.

“Ang aking hiling lang ay patuloy na pagdarasal na tama ang aking gagawin para sa kapakanan ng aking pamilya, ng Comelec, at ng ating bayan,” he said.

Before giving his speech, poll body employees have performed song and dance numbers including one where Bautista and those around him held hands while singing the song “If We Hold On Together.”

Last Thursday, Comelec officials and personnel joined Bautista in attending the noon mass at the Manila Cathedral, as a show of support to him.

Last week, the Comelec chief’s ex-wife Patricia Paz, accused Bautista of having unexplained wealth, among others.

The public bickering between the estranged couple has prompted some sectors to urge Bautista to take a leave of absence while others have threatened to lodge an impeachment case against him.  (with Diana Bando (OJT/PNA)