Malacañang Declares National Mourning Period for Pope Francis

Malacañang has declared a four-day period of national mourning for Pope Francis who passed away earlier this week.

Photo: Vatican Media

Proclamation no. 871, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on April 23, declared a period of national mourning effective immediately until Pope Francis’ burial on Saturday, April 26.

“Throughout his 12 years of service as the head of Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis led over 1.3 Billion Catholics worldwide, including millions of Filipinos, and became a global symbol of humility, compassion, and peace, devoting his ministry to the care of the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable, and advocating tirelessly for social justice, equality, and interfaith dialogue,” expressed President Marcos.

“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 proclamation also recognizes the profound influence of the late pontiff, specifically his Apostolic Visit to the Philippines in January 2015, where he offered solidarity to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda.

With this, the Philippine flag flag “shall be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset” on all government establishments throughout the Philippines and abroad, effective until the Pope’s burial.

President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos are also set to join world leaders in Vatican City to attend the funeral of Pope Francis and pay their final respects.

Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88, only a day after he made a surprise appearance at St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.

He was the first pope from South America and the Jesuit order. He became the 266th pope in 2013, following the resignation of the late Pope Benedict XVI.

ALSO READ: Malacañang Declares April 22 Day of National Mourning for Nora Aunor

What are your thoughts on this? Tell us in the comments!