Vatican Envoy Notes Cebu’s Impressive Preparations for 51st IEC in 2016

A Vatican diplomat has noted Cebu’s impressive early preparations for the 51st International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) in January even if Filipinos tend to work extra hard at the last minute or the so-called “mañana” habit.

Monsignor Piero Marini, head the Pontifical Committee for IEC, is in Cebu to check on final preparations for the IEC to be held in Cebu in January.

“I think the people are very different from Italian and South America because they wait for the last minute to carry out certain project,” Marini said.

“The preparations for this specific congress have already begun with great anticipation. So much so that they have asked the Irish for support and advice. I still remain surprised and impressed for what I’ve seen with the new construction. And I expect more very good surprises when the congress happens,” Marini said.

Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma said that while Marini mentioned our “mañana” habit, top Catholic Church officials have been impressed by the local committee while emphasizing the matters that are only done at the latter part as the activity nears.

“The spirit is he mentioned last minute surprises. He was really impressed in what he saw in the pavilion. But of course, like any preparation for a big event, there are certain things that can only be done towards the last few months,” Palma said.

Palma said these things include the songs, sound system, and the other, decoration and accommodation which are still being finalized.

“But I think I was surprised that the line that was picked up was the last minute. To me, all along he was saying I really was amazed. In fact, he said we have done a miracle,” Palma said.

Palma said there are areas that local organizers must improve.

“As always, we can always improve on many things. For example, finding it a little bit difficult to register. They were saying that they could hardly access the website. That’s something we need to look into. It’s easy but for many, it is difficult. Second, in other places they are not familiar with the Eucharistic Congress. They have very little idea as regards exactly when and the areas. We need to improve that. Invitation, linkages,” he said.

The 59-man team from the Vatican and other countries has inspected the ongoing construction of the PHP250-million IEC Pavilion which is set to be finished in October as well as other venues such as the Cebu Capitol grounds for the mass and procession leading to Plaza Independencia in Cebu City.