DAVAO CITY – The faithful here is mourning the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, at the age of 88 due to a stroke and irreversible heart failure.

SISTER Ana Rosa Sivori, Pope Francis' second cousin, stands near a portrait of the late pope during a press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, April 22, 2025. (AP)

Archdiocese of Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles led the Mass for the Eternal Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis on Tuesday morning, April 22, at the San Pedro Cathedral on San Pedro St. here.

He expressed profound sorrow over losing a beloved Catholic spiritual leader.

“We lost such a wonderful man,” Valles said in his homily. “But in all sadness, we should not be defeated, because he would be sad if we were defeated by sadness. Now he is with the Lord, the Lord of Life.”

The Davao archbishop described the late Pontiff as a guiding light who did not bring radically new teachings but instead deepened the faith of many by bringing ancient truths into sharper focus.

“Our faith was strengthened by his preaching, message, and example in action. He showed us the beauty of being faithful servants of the Church,” Valles said as he acknowledged the global wave of mourning and unity following Pope Francis’ passing.

“There is a deep sorrow and a sense of loss,” the archbishop added, reflecting on Pope Francis’ legacy. He also reminded everyone of the Pope’s call to reach out and help the forgotten ones, those seen as unworthy, and the marginalized.

Valles said that a designated area within San Pedro Cathedral will be established in honor of Pope Francis, featuring photographs from his life and time as Pope. He said the space will serve as a place for reflection and prayer.

Davao City Council

Invoking a suspension of the rules, the 20th Davao City Council formally adopted a resolution conveying their heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the Archdiocese of Davao on the passing of Pope Francis.

The people paid tribute to the late Pope at Saint Jude Shrine Parish, where his photo was placed on the altar, by offering flowers and prayers.

The parish invited the people on its Facebook page to pray and give thanks for his life and service.

The Davao del Sur State College released a statement condoling with the Pope’s bereaved family and friends. The college remembered Pope Francis' advocacy for peace, the poor, and environmental care.

"His Holiness Pope Francis, whose leadership was marked by compassion, humility, and a deep commitment to social justice, profoundly impacted people worldwide, including our community and the Filipino nation,” the DSSC said.

The PM Sisters of the Philippine Province celebrating their 75th anniversary today reflected on Pope Francis’ legacy through their environmental efforts. A recent mangrove planting initiative in Davao City was inspired by the Pope’s call in “Laudato Si” to care for creation.

The Ateneo de Davao University and Holy Cross of Davao College joined the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, offering prayers and paying tribute to his life of compassion, courage, and servant leadership.

In a statement, the HCDC reflected on the enduring impact of Pope Francis, describing him as a leader who embodied the values the institution holds dear—Servant Leadership, Stewardship, Synodality, Shalom, Scholarship, Sustainability, Solidarity, and Social Justice.

“Pope Francis showed the world what it means to lead with kindness, serve with courage, and care deeply for others. He lived out the values we cherish at Holy Cross of Davao College. These are the same roots that strengthen our Tree of Life,” the HCDC said.

The college said the Pope was widely recognized for his empathy toward the poor, unwavering call for mercy and forgiveness, deep concern for the environment, and vision of a Church that walks hand-in-hand with all people.

HCDC emphasized Pope Francis's gentle yet resolute leadership inspired action, unity, and hope. The statement said his life reminds people that faith must always be lived through action, that hope must always lift others, and that love must always seek justice and peace.

“His steadfast spirit taught us that real change begins with compassion and courage. We thank Pope Francis, who showed the world that true greatness is found not in power but in humble and faithful service,” the HCDC said.

As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, his voice — one of peace, mercy, and inclusion — continues to echo through the hearts of all backgrounds, faiths, and generations he inspired, Valles said.