Photo by Trisha Macas, GMA News

President Rodrigo Duterte has written a letter to Pope Francis, expressing his "highest esteem and respect" for the pontiff.

Secretary Jesus Dureza, the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process, is hoping to personally hand the letter to Pope Francis during the kissing of the hand ceremonies on Wednesday.

"Our countrymen remember Your Holiness' apostolic visit in 2015 with deep appreciation, knowing that it was made with the most sincere regard for the welfare of the Church's flock," Duterte told the Pope.

"The Philippines valies its special relations with the Holy See and regards with gratitude Your Holiness' gracious stewardship of the Catholic faith," he added. —NB, GMA News