RP envoy to Vatican shows credentials to Pope

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines’ new ambassador to the Vatican has presented her credentials to Pope Benedict XVI.

Ambassador to the Holy See Mercedes Arrastia-Tuason presented her credentials last Oct. 2 during solemn ceremonies at the Papa I Residence in Castelgandolfo. She was accompanied by her family and Philippine embassy personnel.

During her meeting with the Holy Father, the ambassador conveyed the greetings of President Arroyo and the love of the Filipino people. She highlighted the gift of faith of the Filipinos, a gift which gave them the resilience to live with joy and hope in the midst of difficulties.

Tuason expressed to the Holy Father her commitment to deepen the bilateral ties between the Philippines and the Holy See, particularly expressing the desire to strengthen collaboration in the area of interreligious dialogue and cooperation.

She expressed gratitude to the Holy Father for his special concern for peace in Mindanao and briefed him on the momentum gained in the peace process.

Tuason, a fervent “pro-life” advocate, emphasized the value of respect and reverence for life that strongly binds the Philippines and the Holy See.

In his address, Pope Benedict XVI asked the Ambassador to convey to the President and “to all the beloved Filipino people” the assurance of his “spiritual closeness and prayers, especially for the victims of typhoon Ketsana.”

As he pointed to the “excellent diplomatic relations” between the Philippines and the Holy See, the Holy Father expressed the hope that the “spirit of goodwill… will enkindle a fresh desire to work together so that justice and freedom go hand-in-hand, and that democratic principles be grounded in truth.”  – Pia Lee-Brago