(GMA NEWS) A resolution honoring and extending condolences to the Vatican over the death of Pope Francis has been filed in the Senate.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada filed proposed Senate Resolution 1342, acknowledging Pope Francis for his remarkable journey as the first Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church from Latin America.
“Pope Francis was more than just a spiritual leader. He was a symbol of humility, compassion, and social justice. His messages of hope, inclusion, and mercy touched not only Catholics, but the entire world,” Estrada said in his resolution.
Pope Francis, or Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was remembered in the resolution for his progressive stance on key social issues and his simplicity which “brought a renewed spirit to the papacy.”
Estrada noted that during the 12-year papacy of Pope Francis, he consistently emphasized the importance of caring for the marginalized, promoting peace, and advocating for environmental stewardship.
“He became a global voice for dignity, human rights, and reconciliation,” Estrada said.
Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines in 2015 was also remembered in the resolution. During which, the Catholic leader personally comforted the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban.
“His presence brought healing and hope to a nation in mourning,” Estrada said.
“His passing is a great loss to the Catholic community and to humanity. We extend our deepest condolences to the Vatican and the millions around the world who mourn the death of a servant of God whose profound commitment to justice, mercy and solidarity has transcended faith and borders. Pope Francis has ably represented his position as the Vicar of Christ and pontifex maximus (Supreme Pontiff), trumpeting messages of hope, peace and ultimately, simplicity, to the faithful,” Estrada added.
Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Monday after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest, the Vatican said, ending an often-turbulent reign in which he sought to overhaul an ancient and divided institution.
The Philippines, home to more than 80 million Catholics, has long had a special connection with Francis, who visited the country in 2015, drawing a record crowd of up to seven million people at a historic Mass in the capital. — VDV, GMA Integrated News