Vidal's remains at Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral tonight
PAYING RESPECTS. President Rodrigo Duterte pays his respects as he welcomes Cardinal Ricardo Vidal during a courtesy call at the Music Room in Malacañan Palace on July 13, 2016. PPD/King Rodriguez
CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Archdiocese spokersperson Monsignor Joseph Tan said the remains of Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal will be brought to the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral on Wednesday evening.
At the cathedral, a Mass will be offered for the eternal repose of Vidal's soul, said Tan.
Meanwhile, Malacañang on Wednesday extended its condolences to the family and friends of Vidal.
In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella said the palace also condoles with the Cebuano faithful with Vidal's passing.
"President Rodrigo Duterte and Cardinal Vidal had a friendly, cordial relationship," the statement read. "The good cardinal paid a courtesy call to Malacañang shortly after PRRD assumed office and assured the Chief Executive of his fervent prayers for him and his administration."
"We are thankful for the kind bishop's pastoral role of the Catholic faithful," it added.
In a separate statement, the Augustinian Community of Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu said it was saddened by Vidal's death.
"We extend our condolences to the brother priests in the presbyterate of Cebu and one in our prayers for the eternal repose of His Eminence," said Fr. Pacifico Nohara Jr., OSA prior and rector.
Nohara added that in oneness to the whole archdiocese, the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu will toll "de profundis" bells today, 12 noon, to call on people for prayers and for grateful memorial for the gift of person of the late beloved Cardinal to Cebu.
"On October 19, 2017, 5:30 pm at Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu, the Augustinian community will celebrate a Mass for the repose of the soul of the servant of God. May the choirs of angels come to greet you. May they speed you to paradise. May the Lord enfold you in His mercy. May you find eternal life," Nohara further said.
Vidal died at 7:26 a.m. on Wednesday at the intensive care unit of Perpetual Succor Hospital in Cebu City. He has been in and out of the hospital this year due to pneumonia. /JMD
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