The appointment of the Philippines’ ninth cardinal, Capiz Archbishop Jose Advincula, brings hope and happiness to the country amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, a Catholic prelate said on Monday.

“Amidst this Covid-19 pandemic, the appointment of Jose Advincula is our sign of hope, source of joy, and moment of comfort. We are grateful to our Holy Father and we accompany Jose Cardinal Advincula with our prayers and collaboration,” Bataan Bishop Ruperto Santos said in an interview. READ MORE