TACLOBAN CITY – In a poignant statement, Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre paid tribute to Pope Francis, describing his passing as a moment of “deep, quiet sadness.”
Acidre fondly recalled the Pope’s historic visit to Tacloban in 2015, just over a year after Super Typhoon ‘Yolanda’ devastated Eastern Visayas. He noted how the pontiff’s presence brought comfort and hope to a grieving people.
“That day, he was not just the Pope. He was a father who came to comfort his children. A shepherd who did not hesitate to walk through the storm. A man of God who stood in solidarity with a people trying to find hope again,” Acidre, in a statement, said.
The congressman praised Pope Francis for his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the marginalized, saying the pontiff transformed the leadership of the Catholic Church through service and simplicity.
Acidre expressed profound gratitude for the Pope’s life and ministry, saying the people of Leyte will always cherish his brief but powerful visit.
“Thank you, Pope Francis—for your life, your love, your service. For reminding us that faith must be lived with open hands and open hearts… Rest now, Holy Father. You have done well, good and faithful servant of God,” he said.
Francis died on April 21, Eastern Sunday, almost a month following his treatment in hospital for double pneumonia. The Vatican said Francis died after having a stroke.
He is scheduled to be buried this Saturday. April 26, in a simple underground tomb at St. Mary Major Basilica, home to his favorite icon of the Virgin Mary, to whom he was particularly devoted.
Among the world leaders who will attend the burial of the late pope is Pres. Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
