MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joined the global Catholic community in mourning the death of Pope Francis, describing him as a leader of “profound faith and humility” who brought hope, compassion, and unity to the Church.

“The Philippines joins the Catholic community worldwide in grieving the loss of His Holiness Pope Francis,” Marcos said in a statement. 

“It is a profoundly sad day,” he said.

The President lauded the late pontiff for leading with “a heart open to all, especially the poor and the forgotten,” and for inspiring renewed faith among believers through his humility and compassion.

“By example, Pope Francis taught us that to be a good Christian is to extend kindness and care to one another,” he said. 

“His humility brought many back to the fold of the Church,” Marcos said.

The Vatican confirmed on Monday that Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, passed away at the age of 88 following complications from double pneumonia. 

His papacy, which began in 2013, was marked by efforts to reform the Church amid internal tensions and global challenges.