Manila, April 22 -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday is joining the nation and the rest of the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday.

The AFP said Pope Francis changed the Catholic Church with his emphasis on humility, inclusivity and compassion.

"The AFP, under the leadership of chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., joins the nation and the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis," it said in a statement.

"He led with a focus on social justice, advocating for the poor, the marginalized, and those in need."

Beyond grief, the AFP said it honors and remembers a leader whose example "continues to inspire us to do better, live with pur...