President Aquino calls for public cooperation to ensure success of Papal visit

ROMBLON, Romblon, Jan. 9 (PNA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday underscored the importance of public cooperation to ensure the safety and success of Pope Francis’ five-day visit to the Philippines next week.President Aquino said the government is making all the necessary preparations for the upcoming papal visit. Siyempre, may challenge din tayo, dahil itong Papa natin sa ngayon ay malapit sa tao talaga at hinahanap ‘yung makadaupang palad ang ating mga kababayan,” he said during an interview with members of the press here.At least 25,000 policemen and soldiers will be deployed to secure the Pope’s visit, the President said.He however noted that the government could not do it alone, considering that millions of people are expected to see the Pope, who will offer Mass at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park on Sunday, January 18. Nakipag-ugnayan kami sa simbahan, sa iba’t ibang mga grupo sa sektor na pribado, na kapag pinagtulungan natin ito, maaabot natin ang inaasam-asam natin na isang mapayapa at saka talagang makabuluhang pagbisita ng ating Santo Papa,” he said.President Aquino said the people’s cooperation is important for the successful visit of Pope Francis. Taumbayan ang susi dito para maging matiwasay at mapayapa ang pagbisita ng Santo Papa,” the Chief Executive said.Pope Francis is slated to arrive in Manila on Thursday, January 15 and leave on Monday, January 19. (PNA)LGI/PND/RSM