Pope Francis, the first pontiff from Latin America and one of the most transformative leaders in modern Catholic history, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death, following complications from a stroke and cardiac arrest, marks the end of a papacy that spanned over a decade and touched the lives of millions with its message of humility, compassion, and reform.
In the Philippines, the news triggered a wave of grief. As the world’s third-largest Catholic country, with more than 80 million adherents, Filipinos had long embraced Pope Francis as “Lolo Kiko,” or Grandpa Kiko. Churches across the nation rang their bells in mourning. At Manila Cathedral, hundreds gathered for a special Mass led by Archbishop Jose Advincula. A framed photograph of the late pontiff, adorned with candles and flowers, stood at the altar as hymns filled the air. Archbishop Advincula described him as “a true father to us,” capturing the emotional bond many Filipinos felt with the pope.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. paid tribute to Pope Francis, calling him “the best pope in my lifetime,” emphasizing his empathy and deep concern for the poor and vulnerable. The pope’s 2015 visit to the Philippines left a profound impression, especially after he met with survivors of Typhoon Haiyan and delivered impassioned speeches against poverty and corruption.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis became known for his groundbreaking efforts to reform the Church and reach out to the marginalized. He chose modest housing over papal palaces and was often seen traveling in simple vehicles. His pastoral care extended to refugees, the LGBTQ+ community, and the incarcerated. Even during his final days, despite being hospitalized with double pneumonia, he continued working tirelessly. On Easter Sunday, he appeared in St. Peter’s Square and delivered a heartfelt call for peace in war-torn regions.
Condolences poured in from global leaders. Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and King Charles III praised Pope Francis for his unwavering dedication to unity, dialogue, and justice. Religious organizations, including Caritas Asia, expressed deep sorrow, remembering him as a pope who walked closely with the poor and lifted up those on society’s margins.
As the Vatican prepares for the conclave to elect a new pope, attention has turned toward Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, who is considered a strong contender. His pastoral charisma, theological insight, and global experience have fueled speculation that he could become the first Asian pope in the Church’s history.
Pope Francis’s death marks the close of an era defined by compassion, courage, and a bold reimagining of the Church’s role in the modern world. His legacy will endure in the hearts of the faithful who saw in him not just a pope, but a shepherd who truly lived the Gospel.