Pope Francis dies at 88; Marcos Jr declares national mourning

Pope Francis, affectionately known as 'Lolo Kiko' by Filipinos, passed away at 88 years old on Monday, April 21.

During his 12-year papacy, he emphasized mercy and advocated for the marginalized, earning him a special place in the hearts of many Filipinos, particularly during his visit to the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan in 2015.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed deep condolences on Monday, describing Pope Francis as 'the best Pope' he has encountered in his lifetime and calling him a man of profound faith and humility who led with wisdom.

Proclamation No. 871 was signed by President Marcos Jr. on Wednesday, officially declaring a period of national mourning until the pope's funeral at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City scheduled for Saturday, April 26, during which flags will remain at half-mast in government buildings worldwide.

Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula called on Filipino Catholic faithful to heed the late pontiff's call to be 'smugglers of faith,' emphasizing his legacy of mercy and compassion.

Francis made history as the first pope from the Americas and the Jesuit order, paying an emotional visit to the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan in January 2015 where he met survivors and offered words of comfort.