Cardinal David to fly to Rome this week following Pope Francis’ death

Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, is expected to depart for Rome this week following the passing of Pope Francis on Monday.

“Cardinal Ambo David is finalizing his travel papers and coordinating with the Apostolic Nunciature. We anticipate that he will depart within this week. Let us pray for the soul of Pope Francis,” the Diocese of Kalookan told GMA News Online.

When the pope dies or resigns, the College of Cardinals will govern the Catholic Church until a new pope is elected through the conclave.

Cardinals from across the globe are expected to go to Rome for the funeral and the conclave, in which a new pope will be elected.

Following the pope’s death, the cardinals will hold general congregations or a series of meetings and prepare for the papal election.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber or the caretaker of the Papal household, announced that Pope Francis passed away at 88 on the Vatican's TV channel.

Earlier this year, Pope Francis spent several weeks at Rome's Gemelli Hospital for double pneumonia. — BAP, GMA Integrated News