Binay off to Vatican for Pope Francis’s installation rites

Vice President Jejomar Binay. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–Vice President Jejomar C. Binay left on Monday for the Vatican to personally deliver to Pope Francis a congratulatory letter from President Aquino.

“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 in a statement sent to media.

The Vice President added that it was an honor for him to witness the installation of a new Pope and represent Filipino Catholics in what he termed a historic event for Catholics worldwide.

Binay also said that he expects to again meet with the Filipino community in Italy to give them an update on government programs and the state of affairs in the country.

Binay also 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.

The new leader of the Roman Catholic Church will be officially installed on March 19. Heads of state are expected to attend the mass that he will be celebrating.