MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno S. Aquino III visited the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City Thursday afternoon to offer prayers to his departed loved ones ahead of this year’s Undas commemoration.
The President arrived at 3:36 p.m. and made his first stop at the Cojuangco mausoleum where the remains of his maternal grandparents, Jose and Demetria, were laid.
He then went on to the gravesite of his parents, former Senator Benigno ‘Ninoy’ Aquino, Jr. and former President Corazon ‘Cory’ Aquino, which was adorned with fresh Malaysian mums, stargazer lilies, orchids, and magnolias.
Presidential sisters Ballsy Cruz, Viel Dee, Pinky Abelleda, and brother-in-law Eldon Cruz joined President Aquino in praying the holy rosary. The other sister, Kris Aquino, was not around as she is currently in Hawaii on vacation with her sons.
After saying their prayers and lighting more candles, President Aquino and his family engaged in casual conversation and stayed for a few more minutes. They left the Manila Memorial Park together before 5:00 p.m.
President Aquino also paid his respects earlier to Mr. Teodito Lansangan at the La Funeraria Paz in Sucat, Parañaque. He was one of the drivers that served in his family who passed away last October 27 due to cardiac arrest at the age of 74.
Meanwhile, President Aquino continuously monitors the situation at various piers and airports to ensure the safe and convenient travel of citizens who will observe Undas outside Metro Manila, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said.
“Pinag-utusan na lahat ng mga kinauukulang ahensya at opisyal na gawin ang lahat ng nararapat para matamo ang layunin ng isang safe at hassle-free commemoration ng Undas o All Saints Day,” Coloma told reporters in a press briefing.
President Aquino offers prayers to departed relatives ahead of ‘Undas’
