Vidal: Money given by politicos go to Caritas

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Archbishop Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal disclosed yesterday that there are candidates, who are sending him money through emissaries.

However, the Cardinal said that he acknowledges the money sent to him and forward it immediately to Caritas, a church-based foundation helping the needy.

Vidal also said that the money is not meant to get the cardinal to give them favors.

“No, it is their good will to help the Archdiocese, it is for Caritas, for poor people in Cebu,” stressed Vidal.

He also clarified that he does not endorse candidates as some interpret his receiving them as some sort of a blessing that is meant to help sway voters.

“They came here to ask for blessings but some of them misinterpret it that I endorsed them,” said Cardinal Vidal.

“I only give blessings because they ask for it,” added Vidal.

“I hope I’m doing right and I am preserving my status of non partisanship.”

For 27 years here in the Archdiocese of Cebu, no one questioned me on my part about a candidate.

He also stressed about his influence during terms of former President Ferdinand Marcos and President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, but explained that his recommendation for people to occupy certain offices is only a suggestion. —Johanna Natavio/NLQ (THE FREEMAN)