THE House of Representatives has adopted a resolution expressing its profound sorrow over the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, citing his moral leadership, deep compassion and strong commitment to interfaith harmony, environmental stewardship and social justice.
House Resolution (HR) No. 2284, principally authored by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, was unanimously adopted by the chamber as a formal expression of national grief and gratitude.
The resolution was co-authored by Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga, House Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe, House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, Senior Deputy Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos, and Tingog Party-list Reps. Yedda K. Romualdez and Jude Acidre.
“Pope Francis was a spiritual leader whose humility and courage changed the world. He elevated the papacy to a symbol of inclusion, justice and love. His memory will live on, not only in the Catholic world, but in the hearts of all who believe in human dignity,” said Speaker Romualdez.
Pope Francis passed away last April 21 at the age of 88 in his residence at Casa Santa Marta in Vatican. He made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit Pope, the first from Latin America and the first to take the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, reflecting his lifelong advocacy for humility and simplicity.
“He walked among the poorest and stood with the voiceless. He sought unity where others saw division. The Filipino people, who lovingly called him Lolo Kiko, will never forget the strength and hope he gave us, especially in our darkest moments,” Speaker Romualdez added.
The resolution recounts Pope Francis’ apostolic journey to the Philippines in 2015, including his memorable visit to Tacloban City in the wake of Super Typhoon Yolanda.
The House recognized his presence there as a gesture of immense courage and solidarity with Filipinos who suffered unimaginable loss.
The resolution likewise cites his theological contributions, including encyclicals like Laudato Si’, Fratelli Tutti, and Lumen Fidei, which emphasized social justice, care for creation and universal fraternity.
It also highlights the Holy Father’s efforts in advancing interreligious dialogue, particularly through the landmark signing of the “Document on Human Fraternity” with Grand Imam Ahmed el-Tayeb in 2019. This historic act underscored his belief in the unity of humankind across faiths.
The House described Pope Francis as a reformer who reshaped church governance through transparency and accountability, while remaining faithful to a pastoral vision anchored on mercy.
“His teachings on faith, courage, love, and humility transcend borders and will inspire future generations,” the resolution stated. “His extraordinary spiritual leadership and unwavering love for humanity have left a legacy of peace and hope.”
The adopted measure directs that a copy of the resolution be transmitted to the Apostolic Nunciature in Manila as a sign of the House’s solidarity with the global Catholic community.
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