President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his sadness upon learning of Pope Francis' condition and urged the public to pray for the Supreme Pontiff.
“Nakakalungkot na marinig ang malubhang karamdaman ni Pope Francis. Sa mga sandaling ito, kaisa tayo ng buong mundo sa panalangin para sa kanyang kalakasan at paggaling (It is sad to hear of the serious illness of Pope Francis. At this time, we join the entire world in praying for his strength and recovery),” he said.
“Nawa’y patuloy siyang patnubayan at palakasin ng Panginoon upang magpatuloy sa kanyang misyon ng pananampalataya at pagmamahal sa sangkatauhan (May the Lord continue to guide and strengthen him to continue in his mission of faith and love for humanity),” he added.
Latest reports from the Vatican indicate that Francis remains in critical condition, with blood tests revealing early kidney failure.
The leader of the Catholic Church remains alert, responsive, and attended Sunday Mass.
The 88-year-old Pope has been battling pneumonia and a complex lung infection. Although he has not experienced any further respiratory crises since Saturday evening, he is still receiving high-flow supplemental oxygen.