President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. extended his warmest congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on his election as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV.

“On behalf of the Philippines, I congratulate Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on his election as the successor of Pope Francis and leader of the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church,” President Marcos said on Friday.

As Pope Leo XIV assumes the role of Bishop of Rome, President Marcos expressed hope that the new pontiff will continue the Church’s mission of compassion, service, and solidarity with the marginalized.

“I pray that he will continue to bring the Church closer to the poor and disadvantaged,” the President said.

President Marcos also shared the collective prayers of the Filipino people for Pope Leo XIV’s strength, wisdom, and grace in shepherding the faithful.

“The Filipino people are also praying for the new pope’s strength and good health as he leads the faithful with grace, wisdom, and compassion,” he added.

“May his life and ministry inspire us to persevere in our daily walk with our Lord Jesus Christ,” President Marcos said.

Pope Leo’s ascension to the papacy brings renewed hope to millions around the world, including the faithful in the Philippines, where the Church remains a cornerstone of the nation’s spiritual and moral foundation.

Filipinos offer their sincere prayers as he begins his sacred mission of leading the Church, with the hope that his pontificate will be characterized by unity and peace. | PND