Metro Manila mayors are asking President Benigno Aquino III to declare a five-day holiday during the visit of Pope Francis on Jan. 15 to 19.

 

The mayors banding under the Metro Manila Council passed a resolution to the effect, GMA News TV's "News TV Live" reported on Saturday.

 

They are to submit the resolution to President Benigno Aquino III.

 

Last November, Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada declared a five-day holiday to coincide with Pope Francis' visit.
 

Estrada signed Executive Order 75 suspending classes and work in Manila from Jan. 15 to 19, but the order does not include those involved in maintaining peace and order, disaster risk management, traffic management, and health and sanitation.

 

The MMA said such a holiday would help ease traffic and help authorities make better security preparations.

 

During his visit, Pope Francis is to take part in events in Metro Manila and in Leyte.

 

Meanwhile, in Malacañang, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said preparations remain on track for the papal visit.

 

"On track ang preparations, at least for the national government. Ang biggest concern natin is security," she said on government-run dzRB radio. — Joel Locsin/VC, GMA News