Robredo’s remains now off to Manila

JESSE’S GIRLS Aika, Jillian and Patricia Robredo sit next to the flag-draped coffin of their father, Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, as relatives, supporters and friends continue to troop to the Archbishop’s Palace in Naga City on Thursday to pay their respects. Malacañang is preparing a state funeral for the former DILG chief whose remains will lie in state at Kalayaan Hall starting Friday until Sunday morning. RYAN LIM/MALACAÑANG PHOTO BUREAU

MANILA, Philippines – The aircraft carrying the remains of Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo took off from Pili Airport on Friday and is now on its way to Manila.

A hearse brought the remains of the late chief of the Department of Interior and Local Government from the Archbishop’s Palace in Naga City to Pili Airport. His coffin, covered with a Philippine flag, was carried inside the aircraft by police officials.

Robredo’s wife, lawyer Leni, and daughters Aika, Patricia and Jillian, were all present during the departure honors held before leaving Archbishop’s Palace and Pili Airport. They also rode the cargo plane, carrying Robredo’s remains, which took off for Manila past 9 a.m.

His remains were expected to arrive in Villamor Airbase in Paranque City at past 10 a.m. From there, the convoy will pass through Andrews Avenue, Old Airport Road, Roxas Boulevard, Padre Burgos Street, Finance Road, Ayala Bridge, and Solano Street towards Malacanang.

President Benigno Aquino III will lead the arrival honors for Robredo at the Malacanang. A 19-gun salute is part of the honors.

Malacanang has prepared a state funeral for Robredo, who is considered one of the government’s most powerful cabinet officials. It will hold a public viewing Friday night (7 p.m. to 11 p.m.) until Saturday (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) at its Kalayaan Hall.

The family has decided to bring Robredo’s remains back to Naga City, their hometown, on Sunday morning. He will be laid to rest on Tuesday.

Originally posted: 8:19 am | Friday, August 24th, 2012