Palo Town Ready for Pope Francis Visit

Tacloban City (PNA) — Palo town, the center of Roman Catholic faith in the region, is now ready for the visit of Pope Francis next week, Mayor Remedios L. Petilla said.

One preparation that the town government will implement, the mayor said, is the re-scheduling of the weekly market day of the town that falls on Saturday to a weekday during the pontiff’s visit.

But Petilla clarified that vendors of food will still be allowed to sell food during Pope Francis visit, but they are only allowed several meters away from the road where people will line-up to see the motorcade of Pope Francis.

Senior citizens and person with disabilities will also have a special place during Pope Francis visit as the municipal government designated an area where instead of standing, they will all be sitting while watching the motorcade of Roman Catholic Church leader.

”We need to consider their conditions,” said Petilla. The security team approved the plan of the municipal government.

The mayor will also issue an order suspending class in all levels a day before Pope Francis arrival since most schools in her town will be used as holding area of pilgrims.

Petilla also called on residents of the town to observe the security measures that will be imposed during the pontiff’s visit to ensure not only the safety of the visiting church leader, but also the pilgrims. (PNA) FFC/SQM/ROEL T. AMAZONA/JSD