POPE Francis’ passing on April 21 at the age of 88 has prompted a wave of tributes from the Philippine Senate, as lawmakers paid homage to a spiritual leader whose papacy was defined by mercy, justice, and profound humility.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada filed Senate Resolution No. 1342 to honor the Pope’s life and legacy.

In his resolution, Estrada described Pope Francis: “More than just a spiritual leader. He was a symbol of humility, compassion, and social justice.”

Estrada emphasized how the Pope’s messages “touched not only Catholics, but the entire world.”

Recalling the 2015 papal visit to the Philippines, he said the pontiff “personally comforted victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban, embodying the theme of his visit—‘Mercy and Compassion.’”

The resolution also traced the Pope’s remarkable personal journey — from working as a janitor and bouncer to becoming a Jesuit priest, then Archbishop of Buenos Aires, and ultimately the first Latin American pope in 2013.

“His passing is a great loss to the Catholic community and to humanity,” Estrada wrote. “Pope Francis has ably represented his position as the Vicar of Christ and pontifex maximus, trumpeting messages of hope, peace and ultimately, simplicity, to the faithful.”

Senate Minority Leader Migz Zubiri, in a heartfelt statement, echoed this national grief.

“My heart is heavy with grief for our beloved Lolo Kiko, our Pope Francis, whose papacy was marked by his extraordinary compassion and humility.”

Senator Risa Hontiveros also paid tribute, calling Pope Francis “the greatest aspect about our Church today.”

She acknowledged his progressive character: “He saw to it that the Church was truly a Church of the poor. He even took it further and called on the Church to listen and learn.”

She emphasized his action on pressing global issues, saying: “I best remember him for his clarion call to action on the climate crisis, his welcoming of women into leadership positions in the Church, and his making God’s love felt by marginalized communities across the world, especially in areas wracked by violence and conflict.”

Earlier, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero issued his statement of mourning following the Vatican’s announcement. Escudero described Pope Francis as “a true shepherd of Christ’s flock,” who championed unity and inclusion.

A nine-day period of mourning has been declared by the Vatican. His funeral is scheduled to take place at St. Peter’s Square, and a conclave will reportedly convene soon to elect his successor.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Camille P. Balagtas