Pope Francis' 2015 trip to Manila, Leyte: A look back

Darren Espanto reminisces heartfelt song performance for Pope Francis

Darren Espanto shares memories of singing for Pope Francis during 2015 visit to the Philippines.

Pope Francis' 2015 trip to Manila, Leyte: A look back

Pope Francis captured the hearts of millions of Filipinos during his historic visit to the Philippines in 2015. From the rain-soaked Mass in Tacloban to the emotional encounters in Manila, these moments reflect the deep faith and devotion of a nation that welcomed the Bishop of Rome with open arms. The Argentine pontiff, who died

The Passion of Pope Francis

My finest memory of Pope Francis is from January 2015, when I watched him celebrate Mass in Tacloban, in the eastern Philippines. Wearing a disposable rain poncho over his vestments, as the winds of a tropical storm battered the outdoor altar, he preached to survivors of the 2013 Typhoon Yolanda.The congregation listened, many of them in tears, as Francis commiserated with them over their loss of homes and loved ones. He said he could not fault …

#ShowThePope: The Philippines that Francis saw

This article about a 2015 documentary on Pope Francis was republished in light of his death on April 21, 2025. MANILA, Philippines – Pope Francis spends five days in the Philippines, the Asian country he sees as a sign of hope. What do Filipinos show the Pope? In this 15-minute documentary, Rappler presents the Philippines that Francis saw during his state and pastoral visit from January 15 to 19, 2015. Rappler weaves the best sounds and images …

Darren Espanto recalls his performance dedicated to Pope Francis during his Manila visit: 'It was an honor to be chosen to sing for such a historical event' | ABS-CBN Entertainment

Darren Espanto pays tribute to the late Pope Francis.