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Philippines Mourns Pope Francis: Nation Pays Tribute to Beloved ‘Lolo Kiko’
Across the Philippines, a nation with one of the world’s largest Catholic populations, tributes and memorial services have been held to honor Pope Francis. Filipinos, affectionately known as “Lolo Kiko” or Grandpa Francis, are reflecting on his legacy and impact on the country. The outpouring of grief and gratitude highlights the profound connection between the Pope and the Filipino people. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a period of national mourning, lasting until the Saturday burial.
A Nation in Mourning
At Quiapo Church in central Manila, devoted attendees packed the pews, while late arrivals sought refuge from the humid climate, fanning to alleviate the heat. A prayer echoed through the church, commemorating Pope Francis, whose portrait adorned the altar.
- Buildings, from universities to shopping centers, illuminated with the papal colors of yellow and white, alongside violet, traditionally a symbol of penance.
- On a bustling Manila thoroughfare, a prominent billboard declared, “Pope Francis, thank you very much! We love you.”
Quiapo Church, like numerous houses of worship nationwide, resonated with the sound of bells tolling to mark his passing on Easter Monday.
Remembering Pope Francis
“Pope Francis is the pope we grew up knowing,” expressed Mario Amor, 35, a member of Quiapo’s congregation. “For me, he is a very kind pope.”
Vivid Memories of the 2015 Visit
Veronica Reponte, a vendor with a stall outside Quiapo Church for two decades, fondly remembers Pope Francis’s 2015 visit to the Philippines. She recounted taking her son to Manila’s Rizal Park to witness the procession.
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“I didn’t have a raincoat and my umbrella couldn’t withstand the rain,” she recalls. The dreary weather couldn’t suppress public enthusiasm. A record crowd of approximately 7 million watched the procession.
- Leading up to his arrival, a frenzy of anticipation gripped the nation.
- Sales of Pope-themed items on Reponte’s stall skyrocketed, including calendars, posters, and handkerchiefs.
- “I’d wished I’d be able to see him again,” she lamented.
A Special Place in Filipino Hearts
In the Philippines, where 80% of the population identifies as Catholic, popes are immensely revered. However, Francis held a special place in their hearts, particularly due to his 2015 visit, occurring just over a year after Typhoon Haiyan ravaged the country, claiming over 6,000 lives.
Despite advisories to postpone his trip to Tacloban due to a potential tropical storm, Francis insisted on proceeding. Donning a yellow poncho amidst fierce winds and rain, he stood before thousands of typhoon survivors, declaring, “I am here to be with you.” His words moved many to tears.
A Pastor Who Understood Suffering
Francis was a pastor who “understood what suffering meant for Filipinos,” and whose visit occurred “at such an important period in our history,” according to Jayeel Cornelio, a sociologist specializing in the role of Catholicism in the Philippines.
He also extended a welcoming hand to marginalized communities, including the LGBTQ+ community. “Many Filipinos [have described] … on social media how this was a man, in spite of representing a conservative institution, who gave hope, about how faith might be evolving,” Cornelio stated.
Catholicism’s Enduring Influence
Catholicism, introduced to the Philippines by Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, is inextricably linked to the nation’s culture and legal framework. Abortion remains illegal, and adultery carries a jail sentence. Furthermore, the Philippines, along with the Vatican, stands as one of the few places globally without divorce laws, although ongoing efforts aim to change this.
The Church’s political sway, once instrumental in ousting presidents, including Ferdinand Marcos Sr, has diminished. The tenure of former President Rodrigo Duterte, marked by a controversial “war on drugs,” proved particularly challenging. Priests faced ethical dilemmas, with some openly criticizing the killings despite potential repercussions, while others remained silent.
Looking Ahead: The Next Pope
As the Philippines mourns, Filipinos are now anticipating the selection of the next pope, questioning whether they will embrace Francis’s inclusive philosophy or adopt a more traditional stance.
The College of Cardinals, many appointed by Pope Francis, reflecting a more diverse global church, will choose the next leader.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, from the Philippines, is considered a potential candidate. He shares a similar progressive view and has suggested that the Catholic Church’s position on gay and divorced couples is overly strict. He has, however, voiced opposition to abortion rights in the Philippines.
If elected, Tagle would become the first pontiff hailing from Asia, the region experiencing the most rapid growth in its Catholic population.
Hopes for the Future
“The Italians might still want to be in power, but the signs of the times have changed,” says Cornelio.
His appointment would bring great joy to the country, he suggests. “The Philippines is all about national pride, from Miss Universe to boxing.”
Faith and Fate
Back at Quiapo Church, Mario Amor believes that forces beyond the conclave influence the selection of the next pope.
“I’m OK whoever will replace him,” he said. “The lord will appoint whoever is deserving.”