Church bells tolled across the Philippines after Pope Francis passed today.

Video shows bells ringing at the Dumaguete Cathedral in Negros Oriental after it was announced that the Pontiff, 88, a beloved figure in the deeply Catholic country, had died.

In a statement, the Dumaguete Cathedral said: 'The Diocese of Dumaguete joins the universal Church in mourning the passing of Pope Francis.

'As a gesture of sorrow and prayerful remembrance, the Cathedral bells will toll solemnly today.

'Let us unite in prayer for the eternal rest of our beloved Holy Father, who led the Church with humility, compassion, and steadfast faith.'

Pope Francis, whose real name is Jorge Bergoglio, was recently hospitalised for pneumonia in both lungs. He spent 38 days being treated at the Gemelli hospital in Rome, before being discharged on March 23.

The pontiff made a final public appearance at the Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on Easter Sunday just a day before his passing.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, in a statement published by the Vatican on the messaging app Telegram, said: 'Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

'This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.

'His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church.'

A papal funeral will be held, after which senior Catholic leaders known as the College of Cardinals will elect a new Pope.