President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos joined world leaders and Catholic faithful on Saturday to pay their final respects to Pope Francis as the Funeral Mass began at St. Peter’s Square.

The Mass reflected Pope Francis’ lifelong dedication to humility, service, and social justice, drawing worldwide dignitaries, pilgrims, and ordinary believers.

Earlier, Malacañang announced that the First Couple left for the Vatican on Thursday, April 24, 2025, to represent the Filipino people at the funeral.

In a statement, the Palace said the President and the First Lady would convey the nation’s prayers and condolences. They remember the Pope for his compassion, concern for the poor, and historic 2015 visit to the Philippines.

The Philippines, the largest Catholic country in Asia, joins the global Catholic community in mourning and honoring Pope Francis’s life and legacy. | PND