ADDRESS OF THE HOLY FATHER PAUL VI
TO THE AMBASSADOR
OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
TO THE HOLY SEE*

Saturday, 29 August 1970

Mister Ambassador,

It is a pleasure for Us today to receive you, as you present your Letters of Credence in the name of His Excellency President Ferdinand E. Marcos.

You have graciously stated that you do not feel like a stranger among Us. We are happy on Our part to confirm your impression and extend to you a warm welcome. We see in you the worthy spokesman of your President and the authoritative representative of your Nation.

We are likewise happy on this occasion to renew publicly Our affection for your people whom We hope soon to have the joy of visiting, if such is willed to be by the Providence of God.

At this time We cannot help but note that special vocation that belongs to your Country: to give a collective Christian witness in the great and ancient East. We appreciate this unique role that is proper to the Philippines and it is Our fervent hope that the years to come will see it develop and add even greater lustre to your traditions.

For the Filipino People We wish also that increased material well-being and prosperity consonant with human dignity. We assure Your Excellency of Our deep interest in your mission on behalf of your homeland and We give you willingly Our cooperation to facilitate the noble purpose of your task.

Upon you, your family and the beloved Philippines We bestow most cordially Our Apostolic Blessing.

*AAS 62 (1970), p.597-598.

Insegnamenti di Paolo VI, vol. VIII, p.815.

L’Attività della Santa Sede 1970, p.371.

L'Osservatore Romano 30.8.1970, p.1;

ORa n.37 p.2.