Yolanda rehab does not hinge on Pope visit – Palace

Malacañang said the government was focused on rehabilitation efforts in areas hit by Super Typhoon Yolanda last year and that it was determined to hasten programs aimed at improving the lives of the victims regardless of whoever plans to visit these places, including Pope Francis.

In reaction to reports that the highest official of the Catholic Church planned to pay a visit to victims of Yolanda in January next year, Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said they are confident that the government will not be ashamed of its rehabilitation program by then.