MANILA, Philippines - Why is it taking long for President Benigno Aquino III to decide on former President Ferdinand Marcos' burial?

In a press conference, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the President is studying all sides of the issue, including sentiments of human rights victims.

"There have been other people who have also mentioned their sentiments on that matter so the president is looking at all the angles on this Marcos burial…Sentiments have also been raised by human rights victims [through intermediaries]," Lacierda said.

He said there is no need for the President to consult the Marcoses since their preferences have already been known.

"The recommendations have been made and we know the preferences of the Marcoses. So it is something that we don't need to consult them with," Lacierda said. 

Ilocos Norte Rep. Imelda Marcos was in Malacanang Sunday to attend the Independence Day Vin d' honneur. Lacierda was not sure if the former First Lady was able to interact with President Aquino.

Asked if President Aquino would also consider the opinion of former President Fidel Ramos, Lacierda said the Palace may do so "for the record… as part of the deliberative process ni Pangulong Aquino."

Vice-President Jejomar Binay earlier recommended that former president Ferdinand Marcos be buried with military honors in Ilocos Norte.