A quiet tribute from the Filipino: First couple attends Pope Francis' funeral

Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos joined world leaders and Catholic faithful at the St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City to pay their final respects to Pope Francis at his funeral on Saturday.

In a statement, Marcos said their attendance at the funeral mass is “a gesture of deep respect” to the late pontiff who he said touched the hearts of millions.

“I represented not just the Philippine government, but the everyday Filipino — prayerful, hopeful and grateful — who would have wanted to be there to say thank you to a shepherd who made them feel seen,” Marcos said.

“This is a moment of shared faith, national pride, and quiet tribute from the Filipino people to a Pope who walked with the humble and gave voice to the unseen,” he added.

The first couple left for the Vatican on Thursday, April 24, to convey the nation's prayers and condolences as the Filipino faithful remember the Pope for his compassion, concern for the poor, and historic 2015 visit to the Philippines.

At the funeral, Marcos and his wife were seated near other dignitaries including US President Donald Trump, Spain's King Felipe, French President Emmanuel Macron, and their respective wives.

The palace said Marcos also had small interaction with Trump and his predecessor former US President Joe Biden at the gathering.

The Philippines, the largest Catholic country in Asia, joined the global Catholic community in mourning and honoring Pope Francis's life and legacy as flags flew at half mast nationwide from April 23 to 26.