Everything is on hold as far as the preparations for the wake for Rep. Ignacio Arroyo Jr. (Neg. Occ., 5th District) in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, is concerned, his friend, Board Member Melvin Ibanez, said yesterday.

Last week Ibañez said Arroyo’s body was expected to be brought to Negros Occidental on Tuesday or Wednesday so his constituents could pay their last respects to the three-term solon at a wake set in Binalbagan, before his burial at his family’s mausoleum at the North Cemetery in Manila on Saturday.

Arroyo, 61, had passed away in London on January 26 after a long battle with cirrhosis of the liver, with his long-time companion Grace Ibuna beside him.

His wife Alicia Arroyo, from whom the Congressman had separated in 2005, accompanied by her lawyer, Lorna Kapunan, returned from London Saturday without his remains, which they had sought to bring home.

The director in London mortuary allegedly recognizes Ibuna as the lawmaker’s next of kin because Alicia failed to show proof that her marriage had not been annulled.

Former First Gentleman Mike Arroyo said his brother’s body would be brought home by the latter’s eldest child, Bianca, soon, and that there will be no cremation as reported.

Alicia Arroyo accused Ibuna of misrepresenting herself in London as Ignacio’s wife.

Friends of the congressman in Negros said they were saddened over the controversy over who should gain custody over his remains.

They should leave it to the Arroyo family to take care of the remains of Iggy, including making the arrangements for his wake and funeral so that all parties can be accommodated, Ibañez said.

“Iggy should be given peace and a dignified funeral”, he said.

Ibañez also said he still hopes the congressman’s body is brought to the fifth district of Negros Occidental so his constituents, supporters and friends can pay their last respects, too.*CPG

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