A Roman Catholic prelate Monday appealed to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) not to betray the people’s trust by allowing cheating to take place in the May 10 polls.

“At the historic first automated elections in the Philippines, you can go down in history as heroes or traitors. Defend the people’s civil rights from all attempts to rig the elections. Great trust has been reposed on you. Do not betray us for thirty pieces of silver,” Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates  Villegas said in his pastoral letter dated April 18, 2010.

He said it is not only immoral to thwart the free will of the people but it is also sinful to just allow cheating to happen and not lift a finger to prevent it.

“Comelec: We do not believe those who say that the first automated elections will also be our first automated cheating. It should not be so. Please make it so! Comelec: Live up to your honor!” said Villegas.

The prelate also appealed to the candidates and their supporters not to resort to stealing and killing just to win the elections. “The only moral way to assume your power is through the vote that is cast wisely and freely and counted honestly and respectfully.”

“We must not allow blood to stain the ballot. Away with the use of force, coercion and intimidation!

Those who live by violence will die in the same way. In a violent election, everybody is a loser. Choose God not guns!” he added.

Villegas also reminded candidates and their campaign strategists to stand up for truth instead of spreading lies.