Negros Occ prepares for Iggy's arrival, wake

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines  — Officials and the people of Negros Occidental, particularly in the 5th district, are getting ready for the arrival of the remains of Rep. Ignacio “Iggy” Arroyo tomorrow (Monday) night.

Iggy’s partner Grace Ibuna, his brother Mike Arroyo and other members of his family are also expected to arrive.

Provincial Board Member Melvin Ibañez (5th district) said Iggy’s body is expected to arrive at the Bacolod Silay-Airport in Silay City, Negros Occidental at about 6 p.m. and friends of the late congressman will join a caravan accompanying the hearse to Hinigaran town where it is expected to arrive at about 8 p.m.

Iggy’s remains will be placed at the St. Mary Magdalene Church starting Monday night until early Thursday morning, Ibañez added.

Residents of Hinigaran will be carrying candles and torches while lining up the streets to welcome Iggy’s remains, said Fr. Greg Patiño, parish priest of St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church of Hinigaran, adding that the arrival will also be heralded by a burst of firecrackers.

Patiño said a regular Mass will be held on Tuesday at 6 a.m. in St. Mary Magdalene followed by a necrological service arranged by the Department of Education from 2 to 5 p.m. and then a concelebrated Mass at 6 p.m.

On Wednesday a regular Mass will be held at 6 a.m. and another at 6 p.m. to be attended by the officials of the 5th district of Negros Occidental, he said.

Patiño said that at 3 a.m. Thursday, send-off rites will be held with a burst of firecrackers, before Iggy’s remains will be flown back to Manila,.

Iggy died in London after a long battle with cirrhosis on Jan 26. He was on his third consecutive term as congressman of the 5th District.  (FREEMAN)