Palace declares special non-working day in Naga City for Robredo’s burial

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

Monday 27th of August 2012

NAGA CITY, Aug. 27 (PIA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III has issued Proclamation No. 461, declaring Tuesday, August 28 as a special, non working day in this city in view of the internment of the late DILG Secretary Jesse M. Robredo.

Last week, members of the Sangguniang Panglungsod in Naga passed resolution No. 2012-338 requesting His Excellency to grant their request of making Robredo’s interment a non working holiday to give all Naguenos the opportunity to attend the internment of their beloved leader who served his city for an unprecedented 19 years.

Malacanang responded with the issuance of Proclamation 461, citing among others the aptness of the said decree in this time of mourning.

Earlier, President Aquino issued Proclamation No. 460, series of 2012 directing all government offices to lower flags at half-mast in line with the declaration of the National Day of Mourning over the passing of Robredo. The decree took effect on August 21, when the remains of Robredo was retrieved by sea divers until the time of his internment on August 28.

In line with this is the granting of a state funeral offered by the government which the family has accepted. Full military honors including the conferment of the highest award to Robredo will be part of the ceremony.

Meanwhile, various government agencies, particularly those under the roof of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) will also give their respective salutation to their Chief.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel for one, conducted their traditional water salute when the funeral truck carrying the secretary’s remains passed by the Rotonda area this morning as part of the cortege. Twenty (20) firetrucks coming from various municipalities in the province simultaneously spurted out plumes of water to the vehicles included in the convoy.

The PNP since day one took part in rendering arrival and departure honors to the remains of the late Secretary. (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)