Pope Francis deviates from itinerary to meet street kids

MANILA, Philippines — Pope Francis on Friday spent some moments with former street children who had sent him 1,000 letters last year.

The Holy Father, accompanied by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, visited the children of Tulay Kabataan foundation which takes in young scavengers and street dwellers from Manila streets.

A former street dweller embraces Pope Francis as Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle looks on. CBCP News

Away from the eyes of the public, Pope Francis hugged and shared laughter with the children after celebrating Mass at the Manila Cathedral.

Francis immersed with the young Filipinos who called on the pope to visit them in a video released on YouTube in September last year.

"You didn't know: Former street kids campaigned to see Pope Francis. Today, they got their wish," CBCP News said in a report.

The event was not part of the official itinerary of the pope's visit in the Philippines. He brings with him the message of "mercy and compassion" and has urged government and Church leaders to prioritize the poor in the country.