Welcome Message on the Arrival of the Apostolic Nuncio

On behalf of the CBCP, I heartily welcome the new Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Fernando Filoni.

As Ambassador of the Vatican to the Philippines, Archbishop Filoni represents His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI.  Having been a counselor to the two former Apostolic Nuncios to the Philippines for several years before he became Nuncio to Iraq, he has already some experience and understanding of our situation in the country. In this sense, we are welcoming an old friend to our country.

On the part of the CBCP we are welcoming Archbishop Filoni as a brother and a colleague sharing our Episcopal concerns with the heart of the Pope Benedict XVI whom he represents.  A pastor and a diplomat, Archbishop Filoni will reflect and dialogue with the Philippine Bishops on the pastoral and social concerns that today characterize our local church.

We look forward to a fruitful adherence and collaboration with our new Apostolic Nuncio.

+ANGEL N. LAGDAMEO
 Archbishop of Jaro
 President, CBCP

 May 15, 2006