Politicians to be seated near Pope Francis in Tacloban Mass

TACLOBAN CITY–The politicians of Leyte were happy to know that they would still have a special spot during the Mass of Pope Francis here.

“The first statement was that there will be no politicians.  (But when we announced otherwise), they were so happy hearing those words,” said Father Chris Arthur Militante, head of the information social communications office of the Archdiocese of Palo.

Earlier, the Church said Pope Francis did not want politicians to have VIP (very important person) treatment. But the Church loosened up to allow some politicians who were also victims of Supertyphoon “Yolanda.”

“Everyone is VIP in the Mass. Even all the mayors of Leyte. They are there representing the people,” Militante said.

He said these politicians would be seated near the stage of the Mass in Daniel Romualdez Airport. The priest refused to identify the politicians, but Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez, the nephew of former first lady Imelda Marcos, would likely be included.

“They themselves are victims,” Militante said.

The Supreme Pontiff wanted to comfort the storm victims and avoid “very important” politicians who may use the meeting with pope for their political agenda, he said.

“Everyone is invited. Everyone has an understanding that there is a pastoral visit. No political agenda. This is a gathering of hope and love,” Militante said.

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