By Brian Campued
As the Philippines joins the global community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared a period of national mourning in the country, effective until the burial of the late Pontiff on Saturday.
According to Proclamation No. 871, which was signed by the President on Wednesday, the Philippine flag shall be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset at all government offices in the country as well as abroad during the said period.
Marcos also honored Pope Francis’ enduring legacy as the “People’s Pope,” who devoted his ministry to the care of the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable—becoming a “global symbol of humility, compassion, and peace.”
“The passing of Pope Francis is a moment of profound sorrow for the Catholic Church and for the Filipino people, who recognize him as a global leader of compassion and a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and human dignity,” the Chief Executive said.
The President and First Lady Liza Marcos, along with other world leaders, will pay their final respects to the late Pope in a funeral ceremony at Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City on Saturday.
According to the Holy See Press Office, Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, Italy.
The late Pontiff’s body currently lies in state at Saint Peter’s Basilica, where the faithful may pay their respects until Friday.
The Catholic Church will also observe nine consecutive days of mourning—starting on the funeral of the late Pope until May 4—and will be marked by “Masses held in suffrage” for the late Pope Francis.
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