President Aquino Declares Three-day Holiday During Papal Visit

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday issued Proclamation 936, declaring January 15, 16 and 19 as special non-working days in the National Capital Region in connection with Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines.

Pope Francis is expected to arrive in Manila on January 15 for a five-day visit to the country. He has scheduled events in Manila and Tacloban during his trip.

In his Christmas message, the President said he expects the upcoming visit of Pope Francis to bring hope to Filipinos.

“Sa nalalapit naman pong pagbisita ng Santo Papa sa bansa, tiyak na lalong aalab ang pag-asa, at lalalim ang pananalig, hindi lamang ng mga nangangailangan nating kababayan, kung hindi maging ng lahat ng kapatid nating Kristiyano,” he said in his message.

In a previous interview, the President said he would discuss with the pope the reforms being carried out by the government.
The President also said he would thank Pope Francis for inspiring Christians in the Philippines. PND (as)