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DFA mourns death of Pope Francis

Philippines | National

DFA mourns death of Pope Francis

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) paid tribute to Pope Francis as it joined Filipinos and the Catholic faithful around the world in mourning the death of the pontiff on Monday, April 21.

Pope Francis in Manila.jpg — Pope Francis during his historic visit to the Philippines in January 2015. It was his first and only trip to the country, where he was warmly received by millions of Filipinos. (Mark Balmores/MANILA BULLETIN)

In its statement, the department said Pope Francis was a beloved spiritual leader for tens of millions of Filipinos.

"Best known for his encyclical Laudato si: (Praise be to You), Pope Francis was a beloved spiritual leader for tens of millions of Filipinos who follow his writings on how to care for the environment, as well as his advocacy for more protection for the poor and the oppressed," the DFA said.

"As we mourn this great loss, we remember The Holy Father's example of compassion and humility," it added.

The pontiff visited the Philippines on January 15 to 19, 2015. During his visit, he held mass for millions of Catholic faithful in Manila, Tacloban City, and Palo municipality in Leyte province.

Pope Francis was the first Latin American pontiff in history. According to the Vatican, he died at 7:35 a.m. He was 88.

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