ILOILO CITY—Iloilo mourned the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday.

The Archdiocese of Jaro has called on the faithful in Iloilo City, the 42 towns and component city in Iloilo province, and the five towns in Guimaras province to offer prayers for Pope Francis.
“We mourn his death because of deep love. Yet celebrate with gratitude his life and ministry that has touched and blessed us all,” said Jaro Archbishop Midyphil “Dodong” Billones in a message on Tuesday, April 22.
“It is beautiful that his crossing to eternity happened during Easter Monday or Lunedi di Angelo,” added Billones.
Pope Francis appointed Billones last February and he was formally installed last April 2.
Billones said the faithful should continue cultivating what Pope Francis worked for in bringing God closer to the people.
“In each of us who caught his spirituality, we carry his legacy of synodality and continue to build a Church that generates hope and compassion,” added Billones.
The Jesuit-run Ateneo de Iloilo-Santa Maria Catholic School (ADI-SMCS) honored Pope Francis for his “humility, mercy and boundless love for the poor.”
The University of San Agustin expressed the “deep absence of a remarkable spiritual leader who touched so many with his genuine humility and compassion.”
Local leaders of Iloilo also mourned and honored Pope Francis.
“Pope Francis was a shepherd to the world—a voice for the poor, the marginalized and the forgotten. His deep concern for the environment, his call for peace, and his unwavering commitment to the dignity of every human being have left an indelible mark on our hearts and on the history of the Church,” said Iloilo Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr.
“For many of us in Iloilo and across the Philippines, he was a symbol of hope, humility, and spiritual renewal,” added Defensor.
“Pope Francis brought the Church closer to the people. He reminded us to live simply, love greatly, and serve others with kindness. He taught us the value of an inclusive Church, a Church for all,” said Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.
“Pope Francis is much loved because he always had his heart and walked his talk for the voiceless, hopeless, and powerless. We will miss a shepherd whose love and care for the flock was felt and seen not only through his homilies, messages, or speeches, but more importantly, through his actions,” said Iloilo City Rep. Julienne “Jamjam” Baronda.