Iggy's remains arrive in Negros Occidental

MANILA, Philippines - The remains of Rep. Ignacio “Iggy” Arroyo arrived Monday night in Hinigaran town, Negros Occidental where they will stay for three days to give his former constituents the chance to pay their last respects.

One of Iggy’s last wishes was to have his body brought home to his constituents in the 5th District, according to his long-time partner Grace Ibuna.

“Mahal niya lahat ng mga taga-5th district (He loved everyone in the 5th district),” Ibuna said tearfully when interviewed by mediamen upon arrival at the Bacolod-Silay Airport at 6 p.m. on Monday.

Iggy’s remains were accompanied by Ibuna, his brother former first gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo, his daughters Bianca and Bernardina, and Ibuna’s children Gabrielle, Jolo, and Rafaela, and other members of the Arroyo family.

“We love him very much and I missed him. We have so many memories together,” said the elder Arroyo.

Ibuna said that before his death in London on Jan. 26, Iggy asked her to return to Negros Occidental but she did not leave his side. When asked what were his last words to her, she did not answer and just wept. “I hope you still keep on praying for Congressman Arroyo. He was a good man and his heart belongs here,” she added. Ibuna disclosed that she is planning to put up a foundation under Iggy’s name, possibly for health or education.

When asked if she walked out during the necrological rites for Iggy at the House of Representatives, Ibuna said she just went to the restroom. “If it was a sin, I confess,” she said.

Meanwhile, former board member Enrique Miguel “Guding” Lacson said hundreds of Iggy’s supporters lined up the streets of Hinigaran town to welcome his remains.

Iggy’s body will remain at St. Mary Magdalene Church until Thursday. A Mass is scheduled today at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. to be attended by Negros Occidental officials led by Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. Sendoff rites are set tomorrow at 3 a.m. before the remains are flown back to Manila.