In telegram to Aquino, Pope Francis thanks Filipinos for kindness

MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis had a departing message for President Benigno Aquino III and for the Philippines sent via telegram.

"As I depart from the Philippines, I extend to you, the government and all the people of the nation my heartfelt gratitude for your warm welcome and every kindness shown to me during my visit," Pope told Aquino in the telegram dated January 19.

"I renew to your excellency and the entire country the assurance of my prayers for peace and prosperity," he added.

Francis' earlier gave a departing message for Filipinos in another tweet in Tagalog.

The Vatican Radio reported that it is customary for a pontiff to send telegrams to the head of state of every country his plane flies over during a flight.

Pope Francis flew back to Rome, Italy on Monday to conclude a five-day state and apostolic visit in Manila.

Besides Aquino, the pope also sent telegrams to the presidents of China, Mongolia, Russia, Belarus, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Austria, Slovenia and Italy.

The Vatican Radio said for the second time in history, the president of China was among the heads of state to receive a telegram from the pope.

"He assures the Chinese President, Xi Jinping of his prayers for the people of China, and invoked blessings of 'harmony and prosperity,'" Francis said.