The Philippines began a period of national mourning for Pope Francis on Wednesday, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr ordering flags on all state buildings across the staunchly Roman Catholic country to fly at half-mast to honour the pontiff.

The body of Pope Francis will be moved Wednesday morning to St. Peter’s Basilica for three days of public mourning for an Argentine pontiff remembered for his humble style, concern for the poor and insistent prayers for peace.

Churchgoers and religious figures in Bedford have paid tributes to Pope Francis following his death on Easter Monday. The head of the Roman Catholic Church and sovereign of Vatican City State died at the age of 88 following a stroke and heart failure.