For me or us Filipinos, his death feels deeply personal and i feel sadnto this news, as Pope Francis held a special place in our hearts, especially after his unforgettable visit to the Philippines in year 2015 and also his inspirational advocacy for all I really admired him to make change, equality, unity, love.to the poor and.more.

His Journey of Humility and Service

He is born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jorge Bergoglio became a Jesuit priest in year 1969, known for his simple lifestyle and living modestly. As Archbishop of Buenos Aires and later cardinal, he served the poor, earning the title “bishop of the slums.” In 2013, he became the 266th pope, the first Jesuit and first from the Americas, choosing the name Francis to honor St. Francis of Assisi, a saint of humility and care for creation.

His 12-year papacy was marked by compassion and reform. He washed the feet of prisoners and refugees, issued Laudato Si’ to advocate for the environment, he also rhe first Pope to do a Holy Mass.in a Islam Countey, and opened doors for inclusivity, like approving blessings for same-sex couples in 2023. Despite of health struggles and criticism, his call for a “poor Church for the poor” inspired millions worldwide especially me.

Pinoys Loved Pope Francis

Pope Francis’s visit to the Philippines from January 15–19, 2015, was a moment of grace for me and our nation. Braving Typhoon Amang, he celebrated Mass in Tacloban with 200,000 Yolanda survivors, wearing a yellow raincoat and standing in solidarity with those who suffered. His words, “I am here to be with you… I have come to tell you that Jesus is Lord, and he never lets us down,” moved us to tears.

 In Manila, over six million Filipinos gathered for his final Mass at Luneta, one of the largest papal gatherings in history, undeterred by rain.

We Pinoys loved him for his genuine warmth, his Lolo Kiko charm, and his ability to speak to our faith. He embraced street children – listened to their stories, and reminded us to “learn how to weep” for the suffering. His simplicity—riding a modest popemobile and shunning luxury—mirrored our values of puso and bayanihan. He saw the Philippines as a beacon of faith, calling us to be “missionaries of the Gospel” in Asia. For a nation that cherishes family and devotion, Pope Francis felt like one of us.

My Personal Story: A Prayer Inspired by Lolo Kiko

I will never forget January 2015, when Pope Francis came to our shores. Like millions of Filipinos, I longed to catch a glimpse of him, to feel his presence in the streets of Manila. But during that time I am not feeling good and kept me home, unable to join the crowds to see him – but also my family “mama, aunts, and siblings” made to see the Pope. I felt heartbroken and sad yet his visit became ang aking dahilan to pray with renewed hope. Watching him on TV and social media platforms his gentle smile and words of mercy stirred something in me. I prayed, “Lord, through Pope Francis’s intercession, sana makatapos ako ng pag-aaral ko sa college and ma solve ang problems ko at ng family ko.” His coming wasn’t just a moment; it was a call to trust in God’s healing, love, hope, and forgiveness. Though I never saw him in person, Lolo Kiko’s spirit lifted me that time reminding me that faith transcends physical presence. And also during my darkest time and my health conditon during pandemic time si Pope Francis ay jsa mga nag bigay lakas and hinilingan ko ng prayers on my healing and recovery and protection of my family. So I am so grateful that walang masama nangyari sa family ko and fast recover ako sa salit ko that time.

A Legacy of Love and Mercy

Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, urging us to care for the poor, protect our environment, and build bridges of understanding. His life challenges us to live with puso—to love fiercely, forgive freely, and serve humbly. As the Vatican prepares for the conclave to choose his successor, we Filipinos hold his memory close, grateful for the light he brought to our nation.

A Message and Prayer for Lolo Kiko

Let us all honor Pope Francis by living his message: “Be missionaries of mercy, bringing Christ’s love to every corner of the world.” His life reminds us that even in our struggles, we can be channels of hope, just as he was for me during my illness and my sad days.

𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗽𝗲

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Pope Francis, our Lolo Kiko, who showed us Your mercy and love. Welcome him into Your eternal embrace, and let his soul rest in Your peace. Through his intercession, guide us to be faithful stewards of Your creation and compassionate servants of the poor. Bless our nation, and may we continue to shine as a light of faith…

O God, Who, in Thine ineffable providence, didst will that Thy servant Francis, should be numbered among the high priests, grant, we beseech Thee, that he, who on earth held the place of Thine only-begotten Son, may be joined forevermore to the fellowship of Thy holy pontiffs. Through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Offer 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory be.)

Eternal rest grant unto the soul of our Pope Francis and let perpetual light shine upon him. May He rest in peace. Amen!

Thank you our beloved Pope Francis and thank you you for your inspiration to me.

Rest in Peace po!