Lambayeque seeks emergency decree to speed up works ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s visit

Lambayeque is asking Peru’s executive branch for an emergency decree to speed up the works planned for Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the northern region in November. Regional governor Jorge Pérez says the measure is needed to release funds and cut through administrative procedures before the pontiff arrives.

The preparations include building a heliport and conditioning more than 100 hectares in Pimentel, where Leo XIV is expected to celebrate the main Mass. The site must accommodate a large crowd of pilgrims, with arrangements for pedestrian and vehicle access as well as logistics and security.

The pope’s itinerary also includes several locations in Chiclayo, including the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peace, Santo Toribio and Chiclayo Cathedral. Authorities plan to prepare those sites for the pope and the thousands of citizens expected to follow his route.

Regional authorities estimate that more than 1 million faithful could gather in Pimentel for the Mass. They are coordinating infrastructure, transport and security measures, while a technical team from Peru’s Foreign Ministry has begun evaluating and coordinating the international visit.

Pérez has repeatedly urged approval of the emergency decree, saying it would shorten administrative timelines and allow the required contracts and works to begin before the pope’s arrival. The article identifies Leo XIV as Robert Prevost and says he carried out part of his pastoral work in Chiclayo.