CBCP: Cardinal Tagle awarded France's highest order of merit

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle was awarded the highest French order of merit during a ceremony in Rome, according to a post on the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

The Filipino pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization was presented the title of officer of the Legion of Honor in recognition of his social projects and advocacies by the Ambassador of France to the Holy See, Florence Mangin.

“But more than that, your career has been marked by a concern for the poorest people,” Mangin was quoted as saying.

“It is this journey, these commitments of yours, these qualities of soul and heart that the French Republic wishes to salute and honor by elevating you to the rank of Officer of the Legion of Honour,” she said.

Mangin also took note of the prelate's programs aimed at extending assistance to victims of violence and drug addiction, migrants and victims of natural disasters.

“You were noticed for your closeness to the humblest of people and to young people,” she said. “In Rome, you don't forget your country and even less those who suffer there.”

There were dignitaries present during the awarding ceremony, including Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See Myla Grace Macahilig, Pontificio Collegio Filippino rector Father Gregory Ramon Gaston, and Filipino priests from different religious orders.

The Legion of Honor distinction, the highest French order of merit, was founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 and given to individuals for their contributions to society. — BAP, GMA Integrated News