For Malacañang, Pope Francis' five-day state and apostolic visit to the Philippines was “successful” and “meaningful.”

 

In a statement on Monday, presidential spokesman Secretary Edwin Lacierda attributed the success of the papal visit to the discipline shown by Filipinos over the past days.

 

“In all the Pope’s events, the Filipino people demonstrated warmth, discipline, and faith, making Pope Francis’ visit truly meaningful and successful,” Lacierda said shortly after the Roman Catholic leader left the Philippines.

 

“Without doubt, on this occasion, the Filipino people once more showed what could be achieved when we work towards a unified endeavor,” the Palace official added.

 

Pope Francis bade farewell to the Philippines on Monday morning after staying for five days in Asia's bastion of Roman Catholicism.

 

The papal visit drew millions of passionate Filipinos seeking the Pope's blessing, and centered on calls to help the poor in a country where a fourth of the population live in poverty.

 

Lacierda further said that the Pope brought unity and affection to Filipinos.

 

“Throughout the Pope’s stay in our country, the affection of His Holiness for the Filipino people was truly evident—whether in his gatherings in Manila or Tacloban; in his official functions and unexpected interactions; and in every opportunity he used to bring the consolation of faith to the marginalized in our society,” the President's spokesman said.

 

“His Holiness’ presence likewise brought together peoples of various faiths and backgrounds,” he added.

 

The Palace official also thanked Filipinos “for their solidarity in ensuring the safety of the Pope.”

 

He also expressed gratitude to Church groups, security officials and the media for contributing to the success of the papal visit. —KG, GMA News