First Family goes cemetery hopping

MANILA, Philippines – As she had done in the past, President Arroyo and her family went “cemetery hopping,” visiting three cemeteries in Metro Manila as the nation paid respects to their departed yesterday.

The President visited the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City where her late father, former President Diosdado Macapagal, and mother Eva are buried.

Accompanied by First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo, daughter Luli Arroyo and other close relatives, Mrs. Arroyo stayed for an hour to attend Mass for Filipino soldiers buried there.

This was followed by a visit to the Manila North Cemetery where the remains of the President’s mother-in-law, Lourdes Tuason-Arroyo, are buried.

The last stop was Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina City where the First Gentleman’s father, Jose Ignacio Arroyo, is buried.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo said Malacañang joined the nation in remembering the dearly departed by calling on all Filipinos to include the country in their prayers as it faces the challenges brought about by the global financial crisis.

“As we pray for their souls and honor their memory, let us also pray for our beloved country, that we may stand united and strong amid this crisis, and for guidance and understanding so that our efforts to achieve our goals for the nation and for our families come to fruition,” Fajardo said.

“The Palace hopes for a peaceful and joyful weekend as we remember our dearly departed,” she added. – Marvin Sy