President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday extended his congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States on his election as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church, who has taken the papal name Leo XIV.
In his message, the President voiced his hope that the new pontiff will continue to bring the Church closer to the poor and disadvantaged.
"As the new pontiff, who took the papal name Leo XIV, ascends the Chair of St. Peter and assumes the mantle of Bishop of Rome, I pray that he will continue to bring the Church closer to the poor and disadvantaged," said Marcos.
The President further stated that the Filipino nation prays for Pope Leo XIV’s continued strength and health as he shepherds the faithful with grace and compassion.
"May his life and ministry inspire us to persevere in our daily walk with our Lord Jesus Christ," he said in closing.
The world watched as white smoke from the Sistine Chapel confirmed the election of a new pope; moments later, the first American pontiff appeared on St. Peter’s Basilica’s central balcony early Friday (Manila time).
He now assumes the role of spiritual leader to billions of Catholics worldwide, succeeding the late Pope Francis, who passed away last month.
