“As of Saturday, what we knew was that GMA (initials of the ex-president) was attending Mass here, but then we got information today (Sunday) that she would not be able to make it,” said Dennis Roa Rarguero, a eucharistic minister at the church.
Despite late notice on the cancellation of Mrs. Arroyo’s arrival here since her release from her four-year hospital detention for alleged graft charges filed during the Aquino administration, there were no signs of welcome preparations at the church located just across from the former president’s residence in Barangay San Nicolas I.
As the Mass started, the commentator read aloud offerings, including one “for the intentions of Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.” The pews of the big church were also observed to be only about a third full.
“We were told that GMA did not make it because she had to undergo check-up at St. Luke’s Hospital,” Rarguero said.
A few media vehicles also arrived at the church but went back to Manila after learning Mrs. Arroyo was not coming.
Local resident Pepita Aquilar, 76, apparently in her finest dress, arrived at the church as early as 7 a.m. to join Mrs. Arroyo at the Mass.
“I woke up at 4 a.m. to prepare for this because I was really excited. I even told my neighbors to be here to welcome her,” she said.
