The First Couple will join around 170 world leaders and other dignitaries expected to arrive in Vatican as the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 21.

“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos will depart for the Vatican on Thursday, 24 April 2025, to attend the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis,” the Palace said in a statement released Thursday evening.

“The President and the First Lady will convey the thoughts and prayers of the Filipino people, who fondly recall Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines in 2015, his compassion, and his life of humility and service to the world,” the statement said.

The funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26, 10:00 am (4:00 pm Philippine time), at the Saint Peter’s Basilica parvis, or the open space in front of the basilica surrounded by its colonnades.

The Philippines, being the largest Catholic country in Asia, joins the global Catholic community in honoring the life and legacy of the pontiff. | PND