DFA mum on repatriation of Iggy Arroyo remains

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine Embassy in London has not yet received any application from any funeral parlor (in the United Kingdom) in connection with the repatriation of the remains of the late Negros Occidental Representative Ignacio “Iggy” Arroyo, an official of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Tuesday.

Raul Hernandez, DFA spokesman, said “the issue is still being heard in the court.”

Earlier the DFA said Arroyos’ family had asked the foreign office not to make public “details about the repatriation” of the body of the lawmaker, who died in London last January 26.

“In keeping with the request of (Arroyo’s) family, [the embassy] is not in a position to disclose to the public details about the repatriation of his remains,” Hernandez said, citing a report of the embassy.

“Wala pang abiso galing sa ating embahada (There is still no word from the Philippine embassy in London),” Hernandez said.

He expressed hope “it will be soon,” as he also assured that the DFA was in touch with Arroyo’s family and helping facilitate the return of the lawmaker’s remains.