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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider First Couple arrives at the Vatican, recounts Pope Francis' humility

First Couple arrives at the Vatican, recounts Pope Francis' humility

Published Apr 25, 2025 10:58 pm

At A Glance

  • In a report by GMA Integrated News, the First Couple shared a few words about the late pontiff.

President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos arrived in Rome on Friday, April 25, for the funeral of Pope Francis at St. Peter's Square at the Vatican on Saturday.

FIRST CO.jpg
Malacañang, Manila Bulletn file photos

In a report by GMA Integrated News, the First Couple shared a few words about the late pontiff.

"Me, when I met him, he was humble and kind, and you'll feel you're blessed by God," the First Lady, teary-eyed, told GMA's Vicky Morales.

In an Instagram post this week, the First Lady said meeting the Pope was a blessing she would always carry in her heart.

"His words were soft, but his message was mighty: mercy, humility, and love above all," she wrote.

The First Couple left for the Vatican on Thursday evening, April 23. Before leaving, President Marcos appointed Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, and Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III as government caretakers.

Pope Francis died at 81 years old on April 21 after suffering from a stroke and cardiac arrest. The Pope was hospitalized for five weeks early this year due to double pneumonia. He recently returned to the Vatican and even appeared at the Easter Sunday Mass, a day before his death.

President Marcos has expressed his admiration for the pontiff and called him the best pope in his lifetime.

The President also declared a period of national mourning in the country, which will last until the Pope's burial. During this period, Philippine flags in all government offices and installations worldwide shall be flown at half-mast.

Pope Francis made an Apostolic Visit to the Philippines in January 2015.

Related Tags

Bongbong Marcos First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos President Marcos Pope Francis
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