Politicians are known for being “epal” especially when election nears. Most likely, their names are on billboards or tarpaulins. Left and right, even in the little things you hold, you might find their names.
But elections or not, it happens. But for a big surprise, a “vote-hungry” politician even put name on coffins.
Mayor Antonio “TJ” Rodriguez Jr. of Capas Town in Tarlac province drew flak in the social media when a photo was posted showing a coffin with his name on it.
Several netizens found it to be inappropriate or disrespectful of the dead.
On the side of the coffin, brush-painted with “Alay ni Mayor TJ Rodriguez Jr.” in red.
However on Tuesday, Rodriguez explained his side saying it was “unfortunate” that netizens were not informed why the coffins have his name.
“We devised this five or six months ago to prevent double collection of companies that provide the funeral services. The coffins painted with my name indicated that the coffins were already paid for by the local government and that the relatives of the dead need not pay anymore,” he explained.
Rodriguez added that the town has been giving free coffins to indigents since 2010.
Problem of double collection cropped up pushed the local government to put his name on every coffin.
Meanwhile, a member of the Gising na Pilipinas network was not satisfied with the idea and wrote: “He donated the coffins but his name adorns these. Have shame; you did not even spare these. You’re the worst among these attention-grabbers! (Sobrang epal sa lahat ng epal)”
Rodriguez said the town government began providing free coffins to indigents after he assumed office in 2010.
“Our intention was noble, to give a dignified wake. It was not intentional to promote myself,” the mayor said.
Rodriguez clarified that his staff has already stopped painting his name on the coffins more than three months ago.
Congress earlier discussed its push for an “anti-epal” bill.
H/T: Inquirer.net; and photo