PNoy to meet Pope Francis but no political agenda seen

MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis will pay a courtesy call on President Benigno Aquino III during his state visit here, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) announced on Monday.

During a televised press briefing, Fr. Lito Jopson said the two leaders will meet on January 16 at the Malacañang Palace from 9:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

"Not only is the Pope's visit an apostolic visit, his visit to the Philippine is also a state visit as he is the head of the vatican which is regarded as the smallest internationally recognized independent state," Jopson said.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said it is "entirely possible" that Aquino and Pope Francis might discuss state matters.

"There is an opportunity for them to take up issues that are close to their hearts and I think, that's their own call," Coloma said during the briefing.

"But at this point, we don't see ourselves drawing any scenario that might involve political issues. We don't see it that way," he said.

Coloma said Pope Francis' trip is not an ordinary visit by a state leader since he is the head of the Catholic Church and the Philippines is a predominantly Christian country.

"We can infer that the common points of interest would converge along those lines and not on the usual agenda that are taken up by the President with other heads of state," Coloma said, referring to the possible issues to be discussed by Aquino and the pope.

Jopson said Pope Francis's visit will also be highlighted by the singing of the national anthem of both states and the hoisting of their flags.

He added that Aquino and Pope Francis will deliver their respective public statements in the presence of government officials.

Jopson also said the Pope is expected to be introduced to the members of Aquino's immediate family.

Pope Francis will then go to the Manila Cathedral after his courtesy call on Aquino.