The Bangsamoro government has joined the Catholic Church in mourning the passing of Pope Francis.

“We in the Bangsamoro Government, extend our deepest condolences to the Catholic Church, our Catholic residents in the region, and to all who mourn the loss of Pope Francis,” reads part of the statement.

The Bangsamoro government described the pontiff as a beacon of hope and advocate for peace, justice, and interfaith dialogue.

“Testament to this were his persistent appeals for peace in the Middle East, especially in the face of atrocities in Palestine,” the statement added.

The Bangsamoro government also said that Pope Francis was a “source of moral clarity as he continuously urged world leaders to depart from war and instead seek peaceful resolutions.”

“These were not mere pronouncements, but a call to action and a reminder of our shared responsibility,” the statement said.

“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 cornerstones of our existence,” the statement added.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died, the Vatican said in a video statement on Monday, ending an often turbulent reign marked by division and tension as he sought to overhaul the hidebound institution.

He was 88, and had suffered various ailments in his 12-year papacy.

His death follows a series of hospitalizations and medical complications related to respiratory illnesses.