(UPDATE) PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthen the country's relations with the Holy See "to meet local and global challenges." The president expressed hope for an improved cooperation between the Philippines and the Holy See during the celebration of their 75th anniversary.
“Guided by our common values and grounded in a long history of collaboration, we look forward to strengthening this partnership over the next 75 years,” Marcos said in his remarks during the reception held at Ayuntamiento de Manila in Intramuros on Wednesday.
Among the guests were Apostolic Nuncio Charles John Brown; Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro; members of the Diplomatic Corps; cardinals, bishops, reverend fathers and sisters; and other government officials.
During the event, Marcos led a toast “to the enduring friendship between the Filipino people and the Holy See and to the continued good health of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV." The president said that the connection between the two countries runs far deeper, rooted in over four centuries of Catholic presence in the Philippines.
"The Catholic Church has helped shape Philippine national identity, culture, and values, while its schools, hospitals, and charitable institutions have nurtured generations of our people and fostered civic engagement, spiritual sustenance, and social solidarity," Marcos said.
"It has been a partner in our nation-building efforts, offering guidance and hope during pivotal moments in our country’s history," he added.
President Marcos said that for many Filipinos, the Catholic faith "lies at the center of our very identity." "Across the Philippines, and particularly in Mindanao, the Holy See has supported peacebuilding initiatives and encouraged interfaith dialogue, helping Filipino communities bridge divides and foster reconciliation," he added.
The president said the Philippines’ partnership with the Church also extended far beyond the archipelago.
"Many of our religious and lay people serve overseas as missionaries and pastoral workers, reflecting the vital role Filipinos play in advancing the Church’s universal mission," the president said.
The president promised that the Philippine government would work closely with the Holy See to implement the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.
He said the Philippines was mindful of the hardships endured by the diaspora, including the seafarers, in their pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families.
“In a world that has become increasingly volatile, uncertain, and complex, the Philippines cannot face today’s challenges alone. We rely on steadfast partners — like the Holy See — who share our commitment to building more just, humane, and inclusive communities,” he added.
