Rome: A Filipino priest based in Rome has asked the public to stop spreading false and unverified information about the health of Pope Francis. Fr. Gregory Gaston, rector of the Pontificio Collegio Filippino, made this reaction after an unauthorized group used the name 'Jesuits' to announce the passing of the Pope on social media. Gaston urged the people to verify first the information before posting it online.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gaston stated in an article posted on the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) News that the public should be cautious about spreading false reports regarding Pope Francis' death. He highlighted that some individuals even misuse the Vatican News logo to deceive people. Gaston emphasized the importance of checking the Vatican News website for accurate and official updates on the Pope's condition.

The Jesuit Communications advised the public not to share the unauthorized post. They clarified in a Facebook post that the information shared by the unauthorized group using the name 'Jesuits' or 'Society of Jesus' is false and urged people to refer to official sources for accurate details. They also encouraged the public to report similar unauthorized pages or posts. The Jesuit Communications expressed their continued prayers for Pope Francis, asking for his healing, strength, and guidance as he leads the Church.

On Sunday evening, the Holy See Press Office reported that the pope's condition remains critical, but he experienced no further respiratory crisis since Saturday. The statement also mentioned that the 88-year-old pontiff continues to be alert and well-oriented and continues to receive oxygen therapy at high flows through his nose.