THE influential Catholics Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines is asking for every Filipino Christian faithful to pray for Pope Francis, as his health has been a main issue and problem with the pontiff battling a respiratory infection.

CBCP President Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David said, the pope remains in the hospital that is why more prayers are needed.

“May I ask for your prayers for his healing and recovery during this challenging time,” David said. 

Meanwhile Archbishop Charles Brown, apostolic nuncio to the Philippines, said that Filipino should rain the heavens with prayers invoking the pope’s speedy recovery and healing.

“I appeal to everyone to please pray for the Holy Father, pray for his speedy recovery,” Brown said over Church-run Radio Veritas. 

“Let us also pray for all the doctors and nurses who are taking care of him,” he added. 

On Tuesday the Vatican narrated that the pope has developed pneumonia in both lungs after new tests showed further complications in the condition of the 88-year-old pontiff. 

The pontiff underwent a chest CT scan on Feb. 18, revealing “the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy.”

“Pope Francis remains in good spirits,” the Vatican said.

They also said that Pope Francis “received the Eucharist and, throughout the day, alternated between rest, prayer, and reading.”

“He expresses his gratitude for the support he feels at this time and kindly asks that prayers for him continue,” the statement added.

Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Feb. 14.

He has since been treated for treatment of bronchitis and will undergo necessary diagnostic tests.

In July 2021, the pope spent 10 days at the same hospital after he underwent a surgery for a colon problem.