Cops visit wake of Tacloban volunteer

MANILA, Philippines - Over a dozen policemen, including top officials of the National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO), gave a salute at the wake of Kristel Mae Padasas, the volunteer who died during Pope Francis’ visit in Tacloban City, Leyte.

The salute, considered the highest honor given to members of the uniformed service, was given to Padasas, who lost her life while rendering public service, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II said.

Roxas, with NCRPO chief Director Carmelo Valmoria and the five police district directors in Metro Manila, went to the wake of Padasas in Taguig City to express their condolences.

Padasas died when scaffolding holding speakers fell on her after the pope celebrated mass in Tacloban City last Saturday.

The Padasas family did not issue any statement, but her mother thanked the officials for being present and for extending help.

“We felt Mae-Mae was among us in helping secure the success of the papal visit. When we learned of the tragedy, we felt that we owed her family a salute to honor her,” Roxas said.

A day after Padasas’ death, Pope Francis himself met with her father Paulino at the Apostolic Nunciature in Manila and gave him a rosary.

Padasas’ mother Judy is an overseas worker in Hong Kong. She intends to stop working there and just stay in the country.