WORLD
Advocates Philippines
Pope Leo XIV Offers Prayers, Closeness To Cebu Quake Victims
Photo credit: Vatican
VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has once again turned his heart to the Philippines, expressing closeness and concern for those struck by the deadly 6.9-magnitude earthquake that rocked Cebu and nearby provinces last September 30.
Speaking to thousands of pilgrims during his Sunday Angelus at St. Peter’s Square, the Pope assured Filipinos of his prayers, especially for those who lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods in the disaster.
“I express my closeness to the dear Filipino people, and in particular I pray for those who are most severely affected by the consequences of the earthquake,” the Holy Father said in Italian.
He urged the faithful not to lose hope, even in the face of devastation.
“Faced with any danger, let us remain united and supportive in our trust in God and in the intercession of our Blessed Mother,” he added.
The Angelus followed a Mass for the Jubilee of Missions and Migrants, attended by more than 40,000 pilgrims.
The quake left at least 71 dead and over 500 injured. More than 200,000 people have been affected, with around 20,000 displaced families now seeking refuge in makeshift shelters and evacuation centers.
Amid the tragedy, dioceses across the Philippines have rallied together. Churches have launched second collections during Sunday Masses, while the Archdiocese of Cebu spearheaded the “Hatag Paglaum” (Give Hope) relief drive — offering medicine, family kits, and tents directly to those most in need.
In addition, aid has been mobilized for other provinces like Masbate and Romblon, which are still reeling from the twin blows of the quake and recent storms.
For many Filipinos, the Pope’s words of solidarity bring comfort, reminding them they are not alone in their suffering.
Speaking to thousands of pilgrims during his Sunday Angelus at St. Peter’s Square, the Pope assured Filipinos of his prayers, especially for those who lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods in the disaster.
“I express my closeness to the dear Filipino people, and in particular I pray for those who are most severely affected by the consequences of the earthquake,” the Holy Father said in Italian.
He urged the faithful not to lose hope, even in the face of devastation.
“Faced with any danger, let us remain united and supportive in our trust in God and in the intercession of our Blessed Mother,” he added.
The Angelus followed a Mass for the Jubilee of Missions and Migrants, attended by more than 40,000 pilgrims.
The quake left at least 71 dead and over 500 injured. More than 200,000 people have been affected, with around 20,000 displaced families now seeking refuge in makeshift shelters and evacuation centers.
Amid the tragedy, dioceses across the Philippines have rallied together. Churches have launched second collections during Sunday Masses, while the Archdiocese of Cebu spearheaded the “Hatag Paglaum” (Give Hope) relief drive — offering medicine, family kits, and tents directly to those most in need.
In addition, aid has been mobilized for other provinces like Masbate and Romblon, which are still reeling from the twin blows of the quake and recent storms.
For many Filipinos, the Pope’s words of solidarity bring comfort, reminding them they are not alone in their suffering.
Oct 6, 2025
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