A Filipina has made it to the prestigious Pontifical Council Cor Unum in the Vatican, the Archbishop of Manila announced.
Pope Benedict XVI himself appointed former ambassador to the Vatican Henrietta de Villa, head of election watchdog Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), as a consultor to the council which is tasked to lead the implementation of charitable and educational programs of the Vatican in the region for a term of 5 years.
A report in The Philippine Star said de Villa was apprised of the development through a telephone call from Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales Tuesday night and was surprised with the development.
“Sometimes I wonder why I am given so many tasks, but I know God will always be here beside me and help and guide me in fulfilling my duties with all my heart and mind,” she said.
The Pope appointed a consultor in Asia since the council has not been as visible in the region as it is in Latin America and Africa.
De Villa said she has accepted the appointment from the Vatican, but noted she would not give up her post as head of PPCRV.
“I would not be prevented from performing my current duties since as consultors we are only required to attend the plenary council assembly in the Vatican. So maybe I will fly there in February next year,” she said.
