House unsure on how to acknowledge Aleli Arroyo, Grace Ibuna in Iggy’s wake

MANILA, Philippines—Leaders of the House of Representatives feel unsure about who to address as the “better half” of Negros Occidental Representative Ignacio “Iggy” Arroyo in the necrological service slated at the Batasan Pambansa on Monday.

“The family,” replied House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. who was wary of dragging the House of Representatives into the bitter dispute between Iggy’s legal wife, Alicia “Aleli” Arroyo, and his partner at his deathbed, Grace Ibuna.

“Better one-fourth,” texted Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales II in jest as House leaders refused to take sides in Iggy’s complicated relationships.

Minority Leader Danilo Suarez refused to make a direct response for fear he could offend any on the people close to Iggy. “I just hope that everything goes well and the service is conducted with the dignity and respect Iggy deserved,” said Suarez.

Manila Representative Rosenda Ann Ocampo only said that it was time to lay Iggy to rest.

“He was a really nice, gentle guy,” said Northern Samar Rep. Raul A. Daza, who noted that the war of women in Iggy’s lives should spur legislation on making separation easier for couples who could no longer stay together. “If one can’t get annulled civilly and canonically, what options do poor women have? Is there a way to lower the cost for these processes?” asked Daza, who pointed out that reforms would benefit most abused women who wanted out. “Very hard to live with abusive partners,” said Daza.