Philippines at the Vatican

Today, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience the President of the Republic of the Philippines, His Excellency, Benigno S. Aquino III, who subsequently met with His Eminence, Pietro Parolin, the Cardinal Secretary of State of His Holiness, accompanied by Monsignor Antoine Camilleri, Under-Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, the dialogue between the various members of Filipino society was evoked, as well as the contribution of the Catholic Church to the life of the country. Special reference was made to the peace process in Mindanao, with the hope that commitment from the Parties may guarantee stable and lasting peace to the region.

This was followed by an exchange of opinions on the international and regional situation, with special reference to the question of climate change and the COP21 Conference in Paris.