National Mourning for Pope John Paul II

The proclamation highlights Pope John Paul II’s evolution from a young priest to the global voice for goodness, social justice, and freedom to love.
He transcended physical, religious, and racial barriers, becoming a communicator of hope and freedom reaching all peoples worldwide.
Acknowledges his historic acts as the first Pope to visit a Jewish synagogue, a Muslim mosque, and to ask forgiveness for past sins to bridge religious and political divides.

Pope John Paul II is remembered fondly by Filipinos for canonizing the first Filipino saint, Lorenzo Ruiz.
He visited the Philippines twice: in 1981 for a six-day pastoral visit and in 1995 for the World Youth Day.
He played a key role in the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000.
The Philippines held a special place in his heart as Asia’s oldest Christian democracy.
Manila was selected as the site of the Fourth World Meeting of Families in 2003, the first such meeting held in Asia.
He showed concern for the Filipino people during natural disasters and crises.

His 26-year papacy as Vicar of Christ influenced a gentler approach to a fast-changing world through his teachings, writings, and lifestyle.
He consistently spoke on issues such as poverty, especially its impact on women, children, and migrants.
He emphasized the Church’s maternal role, likening it to Mary who treasures the story and problems of her children.

The proclamation symbolizes the Filipino people’s solidarity with the global community in mourning Pope John Paul II.
It calls for loving prayers for the eternal peace of the late Pontiff.

The proclamation is issued by the President of the Philippines, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, under her legal powers.
It mandates specific observances related to national mourning protocols, particularly the lowering of flags.
Officially executed in Manila with the seal of the Republic affixed, confirmed by the President and the Executive Secretary.