Preparations in place for Iggy's wake in Negros

BACOLOD CITY ,Philippines  — Preparations are in place for the arrival of the remains of Rep. Ignacio “Iggy” Arroyo in Negros Occidental tomorrow.

The remains of Arroyo are expected to be accompanied by his brother, former first gentleman Mike Arroyo, Grace Ibuna, and other members of the Arroyo family.

His body is expected to arrive at the Bacolod-Silay Airport in Silay City, Negros Occidental at 6 p.m. Monday. Friends of the late congressman will join a caravan that will accompany the hearse carrying his remains to Hinigaran town in the 5th District, according to Board Member Melvin Ibañez.

Residents of Hinigaran will be carrying candles and torches while lining the streets to welcome Arroyo’s remains, said Fr. Greg Patiño, parish priest of St. Mary Magdalene Church.

Patiño said the arrival of the remains of the congressman will be heralded by a burst of firecrackers.

Arroyo’s remains will lie in state at the St. Mary Magdalene Church starting Monday night until Thursday, Ibañez added.

A regular Mass will be held on Tuesday at 6 a.m. followed by a necrological service arranged by the Department of Education from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 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 officials of the 5th District of Negros Occidental.

Sendoff rites will be held on Thursday at 3 a.m. before the remains will be flown back to Manila, Patiño said.

 Arroyo died last Jan. 26 in London after a long battle with cirrhosis of the liver.