President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said his attendance at Pope Francis’ funeral in the Vatican was a heartfelt symbol of the Philippines’ deep respect for the late pontiff.
“I stood there not just for the Philippine government, but for every Filipino — prayerful, hopeful, and thankful — who wished to personally express their gratitude to a shepherd who made them feel seen,” Marcos shared in a statement.
He added, “It was a powerful moment of shared faith and national pride — a tribute from the Filipino people to a Pope who walked with the humble and gave a voice to the invisible.”
Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, who arrived in Rome on Friday, April 25, attended the funeral mass the following day at St. Peter’s Square, joining world leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of mourners from around the globe. The couple is scheduled to return to the Philippines on Monday, April 28, according to the Presidential Communications Office.
Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21, due to a stroke and irreversible heart failure. His burial took place at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome.
On Instagram, First Lady Liza Marcos shared photos from the funeral, calling Pope Francis “a true shepherd of compassion and humility who touched countless lives, including mine.”
“From every corner of the globe, hearts united — whether in person or virtually — to honor a leader who made each of us feel seen, heard, and truly loved,” she reflected. “We carry forward Lolo Kiko’s message of kindness, humility, and hope, a light that will continue to guide and inspire Filipinos for generations.”