Manila: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President, Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, has called upon bishops across the nation to ring the bells of churches in memory of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88. He requested the faithful to also pray for the soul of the Holy Father, who had recently been released from the hospital after battling double pneumonia.

According to Philippines News Agency, the pontiff died at his residence at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican on the morning of April 21. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, formally announced the death of Pope Francis from Casa Santa Marta.

Pope Francis led the Roman Catholic Church for 12 years, having succeeded Pope Emeritus Benedict. His papacy began on March 13, 2013, and he was known for his global influence and dedication to various social issues throughout his leadership.