Aquino, Binay extend pleasantries to Pope after Luneta Mass

MANILA, Philippines—Just before Pope Francis left Luneta, he first had to go through the pleasantries of President Benigno Aquino III and Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Pope Francis was on his way to the Popemobile when the two leaders of the Executive Department appeared and bade their farewell.

And as befitting of “Lolo Kiko,” he once more stopped to kiss the toddlers presented to him for blessing.

Aquino and Binay were also in the greeting delegation that welcomed Pope Francis at Villamor Airbase on Thursday.

His Holiness however did not have his hand kissed and instead opted for a handshake between them.

Binay opted to kiss Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle’s hand.