Binay off to Vatican for Pope's inaugural Mass

MANILA, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay on Monday left for the Vatican to represent the Philippines in the inaugural Mass and installation of Pope Francis I.

Binay said that he will also bring and personally the congratulatory letter of President Benigno Aquino III to the new Pope.

"I'll be representing the country in the inaugural mass and the installation of the Pope. And I'll be bringing likewise the letter of the President congratulating the Pope," said Binay.

Binay said it was an honor to witness the installation of the new Pope and represent the Philippines, the only predominantly Catholic nation in Asia.

He urged Filipinos to pray that the new Pope "lead the Church with wisdom, humility, compassion and grace." He also praised Pope Francis' compassion for the poor.

Pope Francis will be officially installed on March 19, which is expected to be attended by various heads of states.

The vice president, meanwhile, said that he will meet with the Filipino community in Italy to update them on government programs and the state of affairs in the country.

Binay is the presidential adviser on overseas Filipino workers Affairs.