Image shows a Christmas photo of former Iloilo city mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog with his family, his first posting of a photograph of himself since being dismissed by the ombudsman for unexplained wealth. Mabilog has also been tagged by President Duterte as

ILOILO CITY – Since his dismissal two months ago, this city’s former mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has not totally shunned the public.

He has been active on social media, often sharing ideas on Facebook, particularly on issues affecting Ilonggos, and posting achievements of his constituents.

All this time, the former mayor had not posted a new photograph of himself.

But on Christmas Eve, Mabilog posted a photo of his family – together with his wife Ma. Victoria and their two children – on his Facebook account.

The photo was accompanied with a post that read: “From our hearts to your homes, we bring the Christmas message of joy and not fear; redemption and not condemnation; truth and not lies; peace and not hatred. May each one of you receive the gift of discernment that Jesus is the reason for the season and that the obedience and faith of Mary and Joseph made our redemption possible. Have a Merry and Blessed Christmas, everyone. Give and receive the gift of love.”

The post drew 3,400 reactions and likes, and was shared 400 times.

It was not clear where the photo was taken, although netizens assumed the family is still abroad and opted not to come home for security reasons.

Mabilog was last seen in Iloilo in August, before he left for a conference on disaster management in Japan.

From Japan, he proceeded to Malaysia for another official trip, where he was one of the resource speakers.

He discussed the city’s best practices, particularly the Iloilo River protection program.

It was during this time that reports came out that President Duterte had Mabilog and the slain Ozamiz City mayor Reynaldo Parojinog wiretapped over their alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade.

Fearing for his family’s security, Mabilog filed a leave of absence from Sept. 11 to 30. He extended his leave for another 30 days.