MANILA, Philippines – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Joseph Carney, a devout Catholic, visited the Manila Cathedral on Saturday, November 14, following his bilateral meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Carney toured the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the official name of the Manila Cathedral, and Fort Santiago in the historic Intramuros district.
ALTAR. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the Manila Cathedral’s main altar. Photo from The Manila Cathedral’s Facebook page
He was welcomed by Manila Cathedral Rector Monsignor Rolando dela Cruz and Father Vicente Gabriel Bautista.
Carney was also shown the church’s crypt, where four former Manila archbishops, including democracy figure Jaime Cardinal Sin, were laid to rest.
CRYPT. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the Manila Cathedral’s crypt. Photo from The Manila Cathedral’s Facebook page
HONORING. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney looks at the final resting place of former Manila archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin. Photo from The Manila Cathedral’s Facebook page
“The Manila Cathedral was honored to welcome Prime Minister Carney and share with him a glimpse of the rich history, faith, and cultural heritage of the Filipino people,” it said on Facebook.
CHURCH HISTORY. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney reads portions of the history of Manila Cathedral. Photo from The Manila Cathedral’s Facebook page
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and First Lady Rosāngela “Janja” Lula Da Silva, as well as Cypriot Minister of Transport, Communications, and Works Evie Tsolaki also paid a visit to the Manila Cathedral on Saturday.
On Saturday, the Philippines and Canada announced the conclusion of negotiations for the free trade agreement, which will be signed in 2027.
Marcos and Carney witnessed the signing of the joint statement during their bilateral meeting.
Marcos, as ASEAN chairman, invited Carney to the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN Summit, which opened on Sunday, November 15. – Rappler.com