BARMM mourns Pope Francis’ death

THE government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on Tuesday expressed solidarity with the nation’s Catholic majority in mourning the death of Pope Francis, who led the world’s largest religious group.

The Argentine cleric, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on Monday following a stroke and cardiac arrest, the Vatican said, marking the end of a turbulent papacy that sought to reform the centuries-old institution.

“The news of his passing brings profound sadness as Pope Francis was a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for peace, justice and interfaith dialogue,” Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof A. Macacua said in a statement.

“In this time of mourning, we stand in solidarity with our Christian brothers and sisters, and we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a society where peace and mutual respect are the cornerstone of our existence,” he added.

Catholics make up about 80% of the Philippine population, according to government data. Catholicism was introduced to the Southeast Asian nation in the 16th century by Spanish colonizers and missionaries and became deeply embedded in Philippine society during Spain’s 333-year rule. — Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio