If the late President Ferdinand Marcos’ burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani will be pursued as planned, his family prefers a solemn funeral rites for him.
Former first lady now Congresswoman Imelda Marcos and former Senator Bongbong Marcos, have sought the assistance of Bishop Renato Mayugba of the Diocese of Laoag to have a solemn interment for FM through the use of the Ilocano traditional practices.
Father Joey Ranjo, the spokesperson of the Diocese of Laoag, said the three historical churches in the province are now being prepared for the visitation of the remains of former President Marcos for a vigil rite before its transfer to the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
“September 10 will be the start of novena prayer for the soul of late President Marcos; his body is set to visit the following churches in the province: Sta. Monica Church in Sarrat town for a vigil on September 15; Saint Augustine Church in Paoay town on September 16; and the Immaculate Conception Church in Batac City on September 17,” Ranjo said.
The former president’s remains will be transferred to the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, Metro Manila for its expected burial rite on September 18.
Supt. Marlon Paiste, police chief, said a security plan is ready for the pre-burial event.
The Provincial Tourism Office is also preparing other activities which include the celebration of the 99th birth anniversary of the former president on September 11.
Meanwhile, Dr. Frank Malabed, mortician of the late Marcos’ remains, said the solid bronze casket for the former president has already arrived and is now in place inside the Marcos mausoleum in Batac City. (Freddie G. Lazaro/PIA-1, Ilocos Norte)
