Veejay Floresca on winning 'Project Runway,' showcasing at NYFW, and claiming spaces

 

By John Legaspi

Published Jan 24, 2026 01:02 pm

When Veejay Floresca returned to the Philippines during the holiday season, she came back with renewed confidence. Not that she wasn’t confident before—but returning home after becoming the first Filipino and trans woman to win the 21st season of the design competition series “Project Runway” definitely added a bounce to her step.

Veejay Floresca showcasing her latest collection at NYFW under Filipinxt

“There’s an unfinished story that I need to put an ending to—that’s why I joined,” Veejay said in between a mini Miss Universe 2026 preliminaries viewing. The moment was a tad amusing, as she previously went viral for her reaction video to the pageant’s 2010 edition.

Veejay studied fashion design and merchandising at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde in the Philippines and later earned a master’s degree in fashion from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. She also studied bridal wear at Central Saint Martins in London.

Her participation in the US edition of “Project Runway” was a full-circle moment for Veejay. Before that, she first joined its local version, “Project Runway Philippines,” back in 2008, where she became a finalist. Then, in 2024, she competed on Hulu’s “Dress My Tour,” a competition series where designers are tasked with creating performance-ready, show-stopping fashion pieces for major musical artists.

“The encouragement really came from the idea that I really wanted to join ‘Project Runway’ US. But I joined ‘Project Runway Philippines’ because I couldn’t join the US edition. Technically, ‘Project Runway Philippines’ was more like an alternative,” Veejay recalled.

Veejay’s shuttlecock dress is her favorite piece she showcased on the show

Veejay observed many differences between the two franchises, but the biggest change she noticed was internal—her purpose for competing again. “I think I am more prepared. When I competed before, I lacked the hunger,” she said. “This time, I have to win this because it is a lifeline. Being a designer in the US is hard—financially and in many other ways. That’s my motivation to win. I need it.”

Pursuing fashion design as a career is already a challenge on its own; doing so in a foreign land makes it even more daunting. Veejay faced these challenges while living in California for 12 years before moving to New York to take her design career to the next level.

“It’s more business. Moving to New York is another fresh start. I have to start again from zero, but it’s a risk I’m willing to take. I think it paid off,” Veejay said. “New York is more inspiring. Fashion is at the core of the city. When you go out on the streets, you’ll see inspiring people dressed up. There are so many things to draw inspiration from.”

Veejay with fashion designer Christian Siriano and 'Project Runway' host Heidi Klum

Her transition also allowed her to deepen her understanding of fashion, design, and her clients. Veejay sees being trans as a superpower, giving her the ability to seamlessly merge feminine and masculine elements.

“I was born male, and before, I didn’t always fully understand how women dress,” Veejay mused. “Now that I’ve transitioned, I know what women want and what makes them feel good wearing something. I include all of those things when I design my pieces.”

Part of her prizes for winning “Project Runway” includes mentorship from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). This February, she will stage her first solo show in the US and is part of the CFDA lineup for the upcoming New York Fashion Week. The show is the cherry on top of a major milestone—opening her shop in Manhattan. As she has done in the past, the show is expected to feature trans, non-binary, androgynous, and curvy models on the runway, echoing her mission that fashion should make one “feel seen and celebrated with confidence.”

Veejay Floresca

“Growing up as a fashion designer from the Philippines, I used to watch New York Fashion Week and imagine myself on the official calendar. It felt wild. Crazy. Almost impossible—but that once-impossible dream is now real,” Veejay said. “To every artist who is still fighting for their dream: keep going. Your moment will come—right on time. And to my fellow immigrants, to my trans community: we belong. We have a place in this world, and we deserve to take up space boldly and unapologetically.”

Karla Puno Garcia on dance, direction, and 'A Chorus Line'

By John Legaspi

Published Jan 2, 2026 06:30 pm

When Karla Puno Garcia visited the Philippines in October, she was daydreaming of some fun time at the beach—Bolinao in Pangasinan, to be specific. But things quickly geared up creatively, leading her to take a rain check on that vacation and focus on the task at hand: directing and choreographing the local production of “A Chorus Line.”

Karla Puno Garcia (Photo by Kate Mollison and Ernest Gatpandan III)

“A Chorus Line” is an American musical originally directed and choreographed by Michael Bennett and his associate, Baayork Lee. The show depicts the trials and triumphs of Broadway’s unsung heroes. When Theatre Group Asia’s (TGA) overall artistic and creative director, Tony Award–winner Clint Ramos, thought of bringing it to the Philippines, it was a natural decision to tap Karla to lead the production.

With her Broadway credits—most notably as the first Filipino cast member and dance captain in “Hamilton,” and as the first woman of color to choreograph the opening number of the Tony Awards, which earned her an Emmy for Outstanding Choreography for Variety or Reality Programming—Karla is the perfect artist to take on the role of director and choreographer. But the show calls for more than technical excellence.

Karla Puno Garcia won an Emmy award in 2024. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Content Services)

If TGA’s most recent production, “Into the Woods,” is any indication, “A Chorus Line” may also highlight elements of Filipino culture and artistry—something Karla is deeply familiar with.

Before the curtain rises on the local staging of “A Chorus Line,” Manila Bulletin Lifestyle got the chance to sit down with Karla as she shares her life on stage, her excitement for the upcoming production, and what makes dance a powerful form of art.

Can you tell us a bit about your journey—what first drew you to dance and choreography?

I started tap dancing at the age of three. I also began with traditional folk dances—I did itik-itik and bangkô. Those were my first memories of dancing with a group. Then I went on to dance competitively, learning American dance styles like tap, jazz, ballet, and more. After that, I studied dance at New York University and earned a BFA in Dance. I expanded my training in modern dance and concert work. Dancing on Broadway was always a specific goal for me. After college, I went on to perform in Broadway shows. That was my trajectory in a nutshell.

My growth as a choreographer came after I started dancing professionally and working with different choreographers in shows like “Hamilton,” “West Side Story,” and “Wicked.” Experiencing a diverse array of movement styles infused my work with new ways of moving. I was also inspired by hip-hop and the underground hip-hop scene. Overall, my aesthetic is a culmination of my experiences as a performer. That’s where my perspective comes from, along with a sensitivity to music and musicality.

Do you look up to any artists or dancers?

The person I looked up to at a young age was my godsister, LaMae Caparas. She went on to perform in “The King and I” national tour, “Fosse on Broadway,” and “The Lion King.” I literally watched her go from my hometown and dance studio to Broadway and work professionally. Seeing that made me believe that if she could do it, I could too.

What are the common misconceptions people have about dancers and choreographers?

I think choreographers are directors in their own right. When working on a musical, the choreographer and director are often co-piloting the show. My job is to help stage the production in tandem with the director’s vision. Taking on the role of a director isn’t that different from choreographing a piece—I’m still supporting the story and conveying it through movement and space.

People often think choreographers are just making up dance steps, but we’re also responsible for how the piece feels and how the show moves overall.

Karla Puno Garcia (Photo by Kate Mollison and Ernest Gatpandan III)

Let’s talk about ‘A Chorus Line.’ Can we expect a Filipino flair in the upcoming staging, much like in ‘Into the Woods’?

There has been a lot of thought and intentionality put into incorporating Filipino elements into the piece, and I’m excited for everyone to see how we do that.

For you, what makes dance—often seen as a form of entertainment—a unique form of art?

Dance has power because there are no words. It’s a visceral way of communicating and expressing how we naturally feel. My nine-month-old, whenever she hears music, immediately starts to move. That alone shows that we’re born to dance—it’s in our bones.

A Chorus Line will feature a stellar ensemble of Filipino performers and will run from March 12 to 29, 2026, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City, with performances on Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are now available via TicketWorld.

'Lahi' to bring the many faces of Filipino identity to the global fashion stage

By John Legaspi

Published Jan 2, 2026 09:11 am

When we talk about Filipino fashion, what often comes to mind are visions of the terno and barong. In many cases, contemporary iterations of these traditional garments also surface. But the thing is, Filipino design is an ever-evolving medium—it often reflects the style dialogue of the present while also celebrating the materials, hands, and craftsmanship that bring these creations to life.

Pieces from 'Lahi' collection

That’s exactly what the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC), is presenting early this year with “Malikhaing Pinoy: Lahi.” Crafted by noted Filipino fashion designer Rajo Laurel, the 30-piece couture collection explores every facet of Philippine identity, history, community, and geography, culminating in a grand display imbued with cultural pride.

“‘Who is the Filipino?’ This is the question I explore in this collection, ‘Lahi,’” Rajo reflects. “Being Filipino can mean many things. There is no single definition of our culture. With ‘Lahi,’ my perspective bridges who we are and who we can become. Understanding our roots empowers the future.”

Set to be staged on Jan. 30, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand, this grand Philippine fashion showcase is part of the landmark partnership PCIDC established with Thailand’s Creative Economy Agency (CEA)—a milestone alliance that not only enhances cross-border collaboration but also provides a platform for strategic trade.

Arnel Papa, Maxine Santos Tuaño, Rajo Laurel, Celestina Maristela Ocampo, and Monchét Olives

Rajo is not alone in taking on the herculean task of presenting Filipino fashion on the international stage. Joining him are some of the country’s most celebrated creatives, such as Arnel Papa, Celestina Maristela Ocampo, Cholo Ayuyao, Monchét Diokno Olives, and MX Studios by Maxine Santos Tuaño. Together, they complete the design narrative with head-to-toe looks that crystallize the collection’s vision.

Manila Bulletin Lifestyle got a chance to preview the initial looks of the collection before it heads overseas. During an event last December, the creatives spotlighted several key ensembles. First is the “Mestiza,” a reinterpretation of the traditional palma and camisa/blusa ensemble using woven and dyed jusi from Iloilo, paired with a skirt in raw silk and abaca from Abra. The look is accentuated by black silk royal blooms with coq feathers crafted in Pampanga by Cholo Ayuyao.

"Paradiso"

"Manileña"

“Mestiza”

“Bagong Barong”

"Datu"

"Kadayawan"

"Ugnayan"

Inspired by Mindanao’s festive celebrations, the “Kadayawan” highlights the country’s regional weaving heritage. Its bodice is made of handwoven straw from Sorsogon, paired with cropped culottes using a “jut”-inspired technique crafted from rayon and silk woven in Ilocos.

An ode to the T’boli tribe, the “Datu” ensemble combines paper silk with ramie linen trousers and the traditional malong, accented with a tampipi from Benguet and a giant bead tassel from Dumaguete—a true celebration of indigenous craftsmanship.

“Manileña” and “Bagong Barong” offer fresh takes on the barong tagalog, crafted in jusi and styled with farmer-inspired silhouettes and jute bibs. The ensembles are completed with handmade stampitas by Cholo Ayuyao and lanyard abaniko by Monchét Diokno Olives of Casa de la Mercedes, emphasizing the collaborative spirit and regional craftsmanship of Filipino artisans.

Inspired by world-renowned Baguio weaver Nada Capunan, “Ugnayan” brings together the earthy hues of the Mountain Province and storytelling through weaving techniques. It is paired with a crocodile bag by Masbate-born Celestina Maristela Ocampo, creating a multidimensional visual showcase of texture, color, and Filipino creativity.

Lastly, “Paradiso,” developed in collaboration with Arnel Papa, pays homage to the natural beauty of Palawan. The gown incorporates the province’s world-class pearls with capiz shells from Bacolod and is paired with an oversized raffia straw clutch, creating a striking, ethereal effect.

“‘Lahi’ is a storyboard of Philippine fashion developed through collaboration,” Rajo muses. “Bayanihan is a core Filipino value. There is strength in creating a point of view together with other Filipino creatives. This dialogue opens up, deepens the conversation, and allows us to experiment, direct, and define new ideas and voices. The process was truly exciting and enriching.”

See the collection in motion:

Pantone announces its 2026 Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer

 

By John Legaspi

Published Dec 4, 2025 10:28 pm

Every December, the Pantone Color Institute leads the way in predicting the trending hue for the coming year. For 2026, it veers away from deep and vibrant tones as it announces Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as its top pick.

A lofty white described as “a symbol of calming influence in a society,” Cloud Dancer promotes deep calm and concentration, giving the mind space to drift and creativity to flourish, opening the door to new ideas.

“At this time of transformation, when we are reimagining our future and our place in the world, Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer is a discrete white hue offering a promise of clarity,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of Pantone Color Institute. “The cacophony that surrounds us has become overwhelming, making it harder to hear the voices of our inner selves. A conscious statement of simplification, Cloud Dancer enhances our focus, providing release from the distraction of external influences."

According to the Color Institute, Cloud Dancer “invites a space where function and feeling intertwine to build atmospheres of serenity and spaciousness, providing a refuge of visual cleanliness that inspires well-being and lightness.”

In selecting the Color of the Year, Pantone’s global team of experts studies color influences from various fields such as the film and fashion industries, travel destinations, design trends, and socio-economic conditions. More recently, they have also considered new technologies, materials, textures, and social media, among other factors, to determine the perfect hue for each year.

Here's what went down during Blackpink's 'Deadline' concert in Bulacan

From high-energy anthems to intimate solos, Blackpink delivered a show that showcased both growth and gratitude

By John Legaspi

Published Dec 1, 2025 05:25 pm

It started with a countdown. And as the numbers came close to the end, all I could think about was: after years of listening to their songs and writing about their journey, I’m about to witness Blackpink perform live. When Rosé, Lisa, Jisoo, and Jennie emerged onstage with their anthem “Kill This Love” in the background, the Philippine Arena wasn’t just filled with pink twinkling lights, but with pure joy and a celebration of how music moves people and transcends language—and I couldn’t believe I was part of that moment.

Blackpink members Rosé, Lisa, Jisoo, and Jennie send hearts to Blinks.

Pre-concert excitement

This is the third time South Korean girl group Blackpink has included the Philippines as one of its stops for their world tour, the first one in 2019 with “In Your Area,” followed by “Born Pink” in 2023. Like their last show, the “Deadline” World Tour was a two-day event, much to the delight of Filipino Blinks. I was lucky enough to be part of the first day of the concert on Nov. 22, 2025.

That day, the Philippine Arena in Bulacan was dressed in pink and black courtesy of the creative ensembles of fans. Despite the heat, everyone was all smiles, checking out their looks and applying makeup while sitting on the grassy lawns. Their giddiness was hard to hide, which eased my nerves as it was my first time attending their concert—and doing it alone.

Purchasing Blackpink merch made easier with Maya Black Visa Credit Card and Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card

Visa and Maya’s photobooths

Visa and Maya’s photobooths

When the gates opened, some ran as fast as they could to get into the arena. Others, like myself, took time to check out the different booths in the venue. Visa and Maya set up various booths where Blinks could take snaps of their “Deadline” weekend and score a Vee bag charm after. I also made sure to visit the merchandise stall outside the arena and got a shirt, which I easily purchased with my Maya Visa card.

An ocean of pink hearts lit up the Philippine Arena.

Inside the arena, fans gathered to take photos and share stories and laughter. The perfect pregame, of course, was listening to Blackpink’s hits, which were played in the arena, hyping up everyone’s energy. Come 6 p.m., everyone in my section was seated, phones ready, and light sticks glowing, creating a sea of pink hearts. Then the lights dimmed and the countdown began.

Special moments on stage

Blackpink kicked off the concert’s Act 1 on a high note with hits such as “Kill This Love,” “Pink Venom,” and “How You Like That.” Flames, pyrotechnics, smoke machines, graphic backgrounds, and laser lights added spectacle to their performance.

Act 1 of the ‘Deadline’ concert featured many of Blackpink’s iconic anthems.

Act 2 put the spotlight on Jisoo and Lisa, as they performed their solo hits like “Earthquake” and “Your Love” for the former, and “Thunder” and “When I'm With You” for the latter.

The girls gathered again onstage for Act 3. It started with some of Blackpink’s fiercer, high-energy hits. But for me, the highlight of the act was their performance of “Stay” and “Lovesick Girls,” which presented a softer side of the members, somehow setting the tone for the upcoming moments.

Blackpink members sharing a moment onstage.

Jennie took the stage on her own to begin Act 4 with her “Starlight” and “Like Jennie” performances. Rosé’s solo set was more stripped down. Before taking the stage, she tried a Filipino snack, turon, and gave it a thumbs up. Perhaps the most vulnerable part of the concert was when Rosé powered through her “Number One Girl” with the help of Filipino Blinks. The singer confessed to being sick the night before and not having the confidence to be onstage.

“We took a little break, but now we are back,” Rosé said. “I must say, sometimes, I forget how to do things live. Some days, I don’t feel like Blackpink… But as we are rising, and you guys are cheering for us, it reminded me. You guys made me feel like Blackpink.”

Act 5 brought the girls back to the stage to perform their latest hits.

That was one of the many moments of the evening when Filipino Blinks were able to show love and support to Blackpink. Sometimes, it is not about them hitting every note or executing every move flawlessly onstage. Rosé, Jisoo, Lisa, and Jennie have touched their hearts beyond music, inspiring fans with their authenticity, resilience, and passion.

Act 5 was a party with their “Jump” song. In these last moments, the members took time to acknowledge the crowd, looking at the unique and quirky signboards, getting closer to fans, and waving as high as they could to make everyone feel seen. And when everyone thought it was over, the girls returned to the stage to give everyone a proper goodbye and thank you with “See U Later.”

Back together, stronger than ever

The “Deadline” World Tour was a special moment for Blinks as it marked the reunion of the four members after briefly pursuing solo paths. Each act of the concert was woven together with short videos of the girls on a road trip, from the urban jungle and Las Vegas to the Wild West. Throughout the concert, Blackpink also took fans on an emotional ride—one that reminded everyone of the power of music and coming together, no matter the situation.

Jennie, Rosé, Lisa, and Jisoo taking a bow and bidding Blinks farewell.

The Philippine Arena glowed in pink to celebrate the success of the ‘Deadline’ concert’s Day 1.

The concert’s first show in Bulacan was a shared space and moment filled with cheers, chants, and moments of pure bliss, proving that the bond between Blackpink and their fans remains unshakable—and I’m sure nobody can kill that love.

Let these Asian stars inspire your autumn dressing game

 

Asia's fashion movers and shakers gather in Manila to toast the unveiling of H&M's fall-winter 2025 collections

By John Legaspi

 

Saed El-Achkar, president of H&M’s Region East Asia and Greater China

On Sept. 19, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig City, guests from South Korea, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore gathered to toast the unveiling of H&M’s fall-winter 2025 collections. The celebration began with a TikTok masterclass, followed by a showcase of the brand’s striking new pieces—all of which are now available in stores and online.

As the sun set over Manila, the soirée came alive with a runway show featuring ensembles infused with British nostalgia, ’90s grunge, and ’80s glamour. Joining the celebration was Saed El-Achkar, president of H&M’s Region East Asia and Greater China.

Bela Padilla

Mika Salamanca

Malaysia’s Eyka Farhana, Juwei Teoh, and Jestinna Kuan

Camille Co

Laureen Uy

Michelle Dee

Catriona Gray

Singapore’s Rachel Wong, Tyler Ten, and Willabelle Ong

Jung Jin Young

Chie Filomeno

Vietnam’s Tran Tieu Vy, Doan Thien An, and Nguyen Cao Ky Duyen

LA Aguinaldo

“I want to say a huge thank you to all of you for being with us here today,” Saed said as he raised a toast. “You are an incredible support to us on the journey H&M is on—to liberate fashion for the many—and you make sure that we are accessible to everyone. We are also inspiring people around the world, and you’ve played an incredible role in that.”

Magic, music, and Filipino identity illuminate 'Into the Woods' opening night

Lea Salonga as The Witch, Mikkie Volante as the Baker's Wife, and Nyoy Volante as the Baker in Theatre Group Asia's "Into the Woods." (Photo by Mark Alvarez)

By John Legaspi

Published Aug 12, 2025 03:47 pm

Ever since the announcement of its stellar cast, Theatre Group Asia’s (TGA) production of “Into The Wood” has had Filipinos spellbound—to the point that there are barely any tickets left to purchase. This reimagining of the beloved Stephen Sondheim musical features a cast of global Filipino artists, led by Eugene Domingo, Nyoy Volante, and internationally acclaimed thespians Arielle Jacobs, Josh Dela Cruz, and Tony Award-winner Lea Salonga, among others.

Sarah Facuri, Tex Ordoñez-De Leon, and Kakki Teodoro 

Sarah Facuri, Tex Ordoñez-De Leon, and Kakki Teodoro

Josh Dela Cruz

Josh Dela Cruz

Lea Salonga

Lea Salonga

Nyoy and Mikkie Volante

Nyoy and Mikkie Volante

Clint Ramos and Chari Arespacochaga

Clint Ramos and Chari Arespacochaga

Eugene Domingo

Eugene Domingo

Teetin Villanueva

Teetin Villanueva

Rody Vera

Rody Vera

On Aug. 7, 2025, the curtains rose at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City. Leading the celebration were TGA’s overall artistic and creative director, Clint Ramos, and the musical’s director, Chari Arespacochaga. They welcomed Filipino fans eager to witness the crossroads of beloved fairy tales—infused with a distinct Filipino soul.

Through theater, TGA honors the depth and richness of Philippine history and culture, creating a space where Filipinos resonate within a global context. Its vision includes bridging gaps and fostering connections among Filipinos in the international theater community to present world-class productions by Filipinos, for Filipinos.

Christopher Mohnani and Arielle Jacobs

Christopher Mohnani and Arielle Jacobs

Mariana Zobel de Ayala and son

Mariana Zobel de Ayala and son

Nic Chien and Joyce Oreña

Nic Chien and Joyce Oreña

Fernando and Kit Zobel de Ayala with their son Alvaro and daughter Sylvia

Fernando and Kit Zobel de Ayala with their son Alvaro and daughter Sylvia

Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos

Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos

Carol Garcia, Alice Eduardo, and Pops Fernandez

Carol Garcia, Alice Eduardo, and Pops Fernandez

Adelbert Abrigonda, Iza Calzado, and Ricky Lee

Adelbert Abrigonda, Iza Calzado, and Ricky Lee

Morissette Amon and Joreen Bautista

Morissette Amon and Joreen Bautista

Martina Campos and Abby Binay

Martina Campos and Abby Binay

Cristina and Bea Elizalde

Cristina and Bea Elizalde

San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and Keri Zamora

San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and Keri Zamora

Crickette and Donnie Tantoco

Crickette and Donnie Tantoco

As “Into The Woods” continues its run, audiences can look forward to a production that not only entertains but also uplifts the collective Filipino voice—boldly weaving tradition, innovation, and identity into every note, step, and scene.

In photos: The highlights of Pope Francis’ 2015 Philippine visit

From his Eucharistic Mass at Luneta to his time in Tacloban, here are some highlights from the Pontiff’s visit, as captured in the pages of the Manila Bulletin.

BY JOHN LEGASPI

Apr 21, 2025 06:29 PM

  

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Pope Francis, the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church and the first pontiff from Latin America, passed away peacefully in the Vatican early this morning at the age of 88. The Holy See confirmed his death in an official statement, noting that he died surrounded by close aides and in the presence of prayer.

Photo by Mark Balmores/The Manila Bulletin

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, the Pontiff captured the hearts of countless devotees—many of them Filipinos. That’s why, in January 2015, Filipinos went all out to see and hear Pope Francis during his first visit to the country. As “The Exponent of Philippine Progress,” the Manila Bulletin followed him wherever he went, chronicling the inspiring moments of his five-day visit.

Day 1: Jan. 15, 2015
Former President Benigno Aquino III, together with nine-year-old Lanie Ortillo, welcomed Pope Francis at Villamor Airbase. 

The Manila Bulletin Jan. 16, 2015 front page

Day 2: Jan. 16, 2015
Pope Francis visits Malacañan Palace.

The Manila Bulletin Jan. 17, 2015 front page

Pope Francis waves at the crowd from the Popemobile on his way to Manila Cathedral.

The Manila Bulletin - Papal Visit 2015 issue, Jan. 17, 2015

Filipino prelate Luis Antonio Tagle with the Pontiff during a Mass at Manila Cathedral.

The Manila Bulletin - Papal Visit 2015 issue, Jan. 17, 2015

Day 3: Jan. 17, 2015
Pope Francis steps down from a Philippine Airlines plane to visit the survivors of Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban, Leyte.

The Manila Bulletin Jan. 18, 2015 front page

The Manila Bulletin - Visayas News section. Jan. 18, 2015 

“I will walk with you all with my heart… I have no words to tell you,” Pope Francis said. “Let us look to Christ. He is the Lord. He understands us because He underwent all the trials that we have experienced.”

Day 4: Jan. 18, 2015
Around six million people attend Pope Francis’ Eucharistic Mass at Luneta.

The Manila Bulletin - Papal Visit 2015 issue, Jan. 17, 2015

Day 5: Jan. 19, 2015
Pope Francis walks up the ramp to board a Philippine Airlines direct flight to Rome.

The Manila Bulletin Jan. 20, 2015 front page

Rest in paradise, Pope Francis.