Palace: Aquino presence in papal Mass won’t worsen security situation

President Benigno Aquino III. INQUIRER.net file photo/Cathy Miranda

MANILA, Philippines–Despite authorities describing the upcoming papal visit as a “security nightmare,” Malacañang on Tuesday assured the public that President Benigno Aquino III’s decision to attend the culminating Mass at Rizal Park will not worsen the situation.

“Magtiwala po tayo sa pagpapasya ng ating Pangulo (Let us trust the decision of the President),” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. told Malacañang reporters.

He did not elaborate on how the Presidential Security Group, which is in charge of the security of the pontiff, will be able to ensure the safety of both Pope Francis and Aquino.

Coloma confirmed that the President will attend the Mass at Luneta on January 18, a day after Pope Francis visits Leyte.

However, he said he did not know if Aquino and the other officials will be seated inside or near the Quirino Grandstand.

“Kailangan ko pong kunin ang impormasyon na iyan sa tanggapan na nakakaalam…Ang nagbigay ng alokasyon hinggil dyan ay ang Simbahan (I need to get that information from the concerned office…The Catholic Church is in charge of allocating seats),” Coloma explained.

In addition to attending the Mass at Luneta, Aquino will welcome Pope Francis when he first arrives at the Villamor Airbase on January 15. They will also meet the next day for a courtesy call with other Filipino officials and the diplomatic corps.

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