Pope Francis apologizes to Palo bishop

MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis has apologized to Palo Archbishop John Du for his shortened visit to Leyte.

In a letter dated Jan. 21, the pontiff asked forgiveness because his visit was cut short due to bad weather.

Addressing Du as “brother,” the pontiff said he took time to send the letter as soon as he arrived at the Vatican from his visits to the Philippines and Sri Lanka.

Francis thanked Du for the hospitality of the people of Palo. He said he would never forget the time he spent in Leyte and Tacloban City.