CITY OF TABUK, Kalinga,– Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Gabrielle Giordano Caccia visited this province on Tuesday (Feb. 12) bringing with him the greetings and blessings of Pope Francis to the people of Kalinga.
“I bring you the greetings of Pope Francis, his gratitude and blessing to all of you on the occasion of your foundation day and peace festival,” the Papal Nuncio said.
Admiring the people of Kalinga in commemorating their founding anniversary and espousing their culture, celebrating peace through the Bodong (peacepact) festival, he said “Embrace friendship and brotherhood as a way to peace.”
Reiterating the Pope’s message that there can be no peace without justice, no justice without forgiveness, he advised the audience to seek peace and reconciliation, live as brothers and sisters.
This Christian message is a means to beat the vicious cycle of hatred so that it will not be carried down from generation to generation.
Addressing politicians during the “Pammachayaw” (testimonial dinner) hosted by the provincial government to honor the Nuncio for gracing the celebration of the 24th Kalinga Day and 3rd Bodong Festival, he asked them to work for the common good and not for personal interest.
“Good politics is to be at the service of the people and working for peace,” the Nuncio said. He then cited the Beatitudes in the Gospel which he said can be applied to politicians.
“Blessed are the politicians with deep concern, care and understanding; Blessed are the politicians who exemplify credibility; Blessed are the politicians who work for the common good and not of personal interest; Blessed are the politicians who remain consistent, working for unity; Blessed are the politicians who work to accomplish radical change; capable of listening without fear.”
During his arrival where among the welcomers were students and pupils, he expressed hope to see the youth contributing a good job and to continue what their predecessors have done citing the theme, “The Filipino Youth in Mission: Beloved, Gifted and Empowered” as their guiding principle.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan passed a resolution expressing the province’s appreciation for the historic visit of Archbishop Caccia to Kalinga. Bishop Prudencio Andaya Jr. also turned over to the Papal Nuncio the key of the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk. **JDP/PAB-PIA CAR, Kalinga
