SENATORS MOURN PASSING OF POPE FRANCIS

SENATORS on Monday, April 21, joined the Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis dubbed “The People’s Pope.”

“I join the Catholic Church and the global community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a true shepherd of Christ’s flock. His tireless efforts to foster peace and inclusion reshaped the Church’s role in promoting unity across religious and cultural divides,” Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero said.

According to Escudero, as the first Latin American pontiff, Pope Francis championed the marginalized, bringing their voices to the forefront of his papacy and inspiring the world with his message of love and acceptance.

“Pope Francis’ 2015 visit to the Philippines remains etched in our hearts. During his time here, he consoled those affected by Typhoon Yolanda and called for solidarity and care for the most vulnerable among us,” the Senate leader recalled.

Escudero said the Holy Father’s words of “mercy and compassion” continue to guide the Filipino people in building a society rooted in empathy and understanding.”

“As we honor the life and legacy of Pope Francis, let us carry forward his vision of a world united in peace and kindness. May his dedication to inclusion and harmony inspire us to nurture our shared humanity,” he further said.

“We pray for the eternal repose of his soul. From a grateful nation, paalam at maraming salamat, Pope Francis! Rest in eternal peace,” said the Senate President.

Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri also expressed sadness over the passing of Pope Francis.

“My heart is heavy with grief for our beloved Lolo Kiko, our Pope Francis, whose papacy was marked by his extraordinary compassion and humility,” Zubiri said.

“He was truly Christ-like in his leadership of the Church, always prioritizing those who are most vulnerable among us–victims of poverty, illness, war, and injustice,” Zubiri described the Holy Father.

“In an increasingly fractured and tumultuous world, his message of love and service rang loud in its simplicity. He was a working Pope, ready to come down from the pulpit and engage with the problems of the world alongside the rest of us,” he further said.

“He showed us that being a Pope is not about the vestments or the ceremony. It is about being a vehicle for love and mercy,” he added.

The former Senate president said his meeting with Pope Francis and receiving his personal blessing at the Vatican last year was an experience he will never forget.

“His reminder to ‘protect the family’ will always live with me, and always guide everything that I do as a Catholic and as a public servant,” Zubiri added.

Senator Grace Poe said  Pope Francis will be remembered for his love particularly for the poor and powerless.