President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos are set to arrive tomorrow (Monday) after attending Pope Francis’s funeral on Saturday, which he described as “a gesture of deep respect.”

“I attended the funeral of Pope Francis as a gesture of deep respect — from one of the world’s most faithful nations, to a Pope who touched the hearts of millions,” the President said in a statement.

President Marcos said, “I represented not just the Philippine government, but the everyday Filipino — prayerful, hopeful, and grateful — who would have wanted to be there to say thank you to a shepherd who made them feel seen.”

The Funeral Mass for Pope Francis, held Saturday at St. Peter’s Square, drew world leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of Catholic faithful from around the globe. The solemn rites marked the end of an era for a pontiff who championed the poor and the marginalized.

The rites reflected the Pope’s lifelong commitment to humility, service, and social justice.

“This is a moment of shared faith, national pride, and quiet tribute from the Filipino people to a Pope who walked with the humble and gave voice to the unseen,” Marcos added.

The President also shared messages of gratitude online, using the hashtags #ThankYouPopeFrancis, #ForeverInOurHearts, #PaalamLoloKiko, #GratitudeAndFaith, and #RestInPeace. | PND