Pope Francis was a father to Filipinos – Advincula

Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula recalled the time when Pope Francis visited the Philippines in 2015, calling him a "true father" to Filipinos.

During a Mass for Pope Francis at the Manila Cathedral on Tuesday, 22 April, Advincula said the pontiff's visit was "a moment of grace forever etched in our national memory."

He recalled Pope Francis' visit to Tacloban in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda and the Mass celebrated by Pope Francis at Luneta. "Under the rain in Tacloban, standing with the survivors of Typhoon Yolanda, Pope Francis showed us what it means to suffer with others and find hope in the midst of pain," Advincula said.

"In Luneta, as he celebrated the Holy Eucharist with millions, he embraced our joy, our faith, and our longing for a Church that walks with its people," he added.

Pope Francis once called overseas Filipino workers "smugglers of the faith," stressing how faith can cross borders and touch hearts where missionaries cannot go.
"His presence, prayers, and preaching have confirmed us in faith, enlivened our hope, and animated us to charity. And indeed, we fondly recall his special love for Filipinos all over the world," Advincula added.

Advincula said "Lolo Kiko" served as a true father to Filipinos and demonstrated his love for the Philippines both through words and actions.

"He appointed many of our shepherds—including three cardinals and many bishops—who share his heart for service, simplicity, and dialogue."

There are three Filipino bishops whom Pope Francis elevated to the rank of cardinal. The first was Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, Archbishop Emeritus of Cotabato, who was made cardinal in 2014.

The second was Advincula, then Archbishop of Capiz and now the Archbishop of Manila, who was elevated in 2020. The most recent is Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, Bishop of Kalookan, who was created a cardinal in December 2024.

The pontiff also appointed 42 Filipino bishops and five Filipino Apostolic Nuncios during his papacy.
Pope Francis, 88, died of a stroke and heart failure on Easter Monday, 21 April, at his residence at Casa Santa Marta at the Vatican.