On behalf of Pope Francis, Cardinal Robert Sarah, President of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, is visiting the Philippines from 26 to 31 January. He will stop in territories that were affected by the Typhoon Haiyan which struck on 8 November last year. The news came in a statement from the Dicastery, stressing that the initiative has been launched in order to bring a sign of comfort and spiritual closeness to the people of the Philippines, who are now engaged in the work of reconstruction, and to promote a network of aid to those already working there.

The Cardinal, on behalf of the Pope, will assure the completion, through Cor Unum, of the project of constructing a new orphanage and a home for the elderly. The building will include, among other things, a small convent for nuns, a chapel and a dispensary.