Leyte
13 January 2015
Despite the inclement weather, preparations in Leyte are in full swing as the first ever visit of Pope Francis to the Philippines draws nearer. Tacloban City and Palo are just two of the places that Pope Francis will go to on the 17th of January (Saturday). For four days, residents have been working together before the most anticipated papal visit.
Together with the local government unit (LGU), repairs and renovations are being implemented, especially on the route of Pope Francis from the Daniel Romualdez Airport up to the Archbishop’s Residence in Palo, and at the Palo Metropolitan Cathedral. Many tarpaulins of the Pope are on display, while many establishments are redecorated to welcome his arrival.
An estimate crowd of 100,000 people from Tacloban and Palo are expected to join the visit, hoping to get a glimpse of Pope Francis.
The Philippine National Police (PNP), on the other hand, are assisting in the preparation and security of the places to be visited. Approximately 25,000 police officers will be deployed on the five-day visit. As early as today, the police force of Tacloban and Palo is on full alert, guarding several checkpoints to ensure the safety of everyone.
Before the event on Saturday, there will be a dry-run on the Pope’s activities. Expected road re-blocking starts from 5 am to 12 nn.
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