Manila, April 23 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared a period of national mourning in the entire country following the death of Pope Francis.

Marcos signed Proclamation 871 on Wednesday, ordering flags to be flown at half-mast in all government buildings and installations in the Philippines and abroad, effective immediately until the pontiff's burial.

"The passing of Pope Francis is a moment of profound sorrow for the Catholic Church and for the Filipino people, who recognize him as a global leader of compassion and a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and human dignity," the proclamation read.

The President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos will attend the Pope's funeral at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican City, schedul...