Malacañang declared January 15, 16, and 19, 2015 holidays in the National Capital Region (Metro Manila) for the anticipated visit of Pope Francis in the Philippines.
On Monday, December 22, 2014 Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. signed Proclamation No. 936 or “Declaring January 15, 16 and 19, 2015, as special (non-working) days in the National Capital Region.”
“In view of the visit of the Pope, the Head of State of the Vatican City, I, PAQUITO N. OCHOA JR., Executive Secretary, by authority of His Excellency, BENIGNO S. AQUINO III, do hereby declare January 15, 16 and 19, 2015, as special (non-working) days in the National Capital Region (NCR),” Proclamation No. 936 said.
Pope Francis is scheduled to arrive in the country on January 15 and will stay until January 19. The Roman Catholic Church has lined up several activities in Manila and Tacloban City in connection with the Papal visit.
Declaring non-working days to Metro Manila will help ensure the safety and convenience of those who want to attend the gatherings in key locations in the city during the visit of the Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.
Pope Francis’ itinerary includes a visit to Malacanang Palace, Manila Cathedral, Rizal Park and the University of Sto. Tomas.
Earlier reports noted that Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See Marciano Paynor, who is member of the event’s executive committee, said the national government was considering to declare a holiday on January 15-19, 2015.
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