PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the nation in mourning the death of Pope Francis on Monday, delivering a deeply personal tribute to the late pontiff, whom he described as “the best Pope” in his lifetime.
“Ibang klase si Pope Francis. That’s really sad. I love this Pope. The best Pope in my lifetime as far as I’m concerned,” Marcos said on the sidelines of a meeting in Malacañang, as quoted in a Palace news release.
His remark came just hours after the Vatican confirmed that the 88-year-old pontiff had died.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, led the Catholic Church for 12 years and was widely admired for his humility, progressive views, and deep concern for the poor and marginalized.
In a separate statement posted in his social media accounts, Marcos said the Philippines joins the global Catholic community in mourning the loss of a spiritual leader who “led not only with wisdom but with a heart open to all, especially the poor and the forgotten.”
“By example, Pope Francis taught us that to be a good Christian is to extend kindness and care to one another,” Marcos said.
“His humility brought many back to the fold of the Church. As we mourn his passing, we honor a life that brought hope and compassion to so many, and inspired us to love one another as Christ loved us.”
“It is a profoundly sad day,” he went on.
Pope Francis visited the Philippines, the largest Catholic nation in Asia, in 2015.
During his visit, the Holy Father celebrated Mass at the Manila Cathedral and the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas.
The Pontiff also held an emotional outdoor Mass in Tacloban City, which was heavily devastated by Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in 2013.
He was elected Supreme Pontiff on March 13, 2013, becoming the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to hold the position.
Before his passing, Pope Francis appeared before the crowd at St. Peter’s Square with a message of “Happy Easter.”
Church bells are expected to toll in cities across the country, with Catholic leaders preparing special Masses and vigils. (PNA)
