Pope Leo offers prayers, calls for solidarity after deadly Cebu quake

National

POPE Leo XIV has extended his prayers and solidarity to the people of the Philippines following the devastating 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu on Sept. 30, leaving dozens dead and hundreds injured.

Speaking after the Jubilee Mass at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City on Sunday, Oct. (Manila time), the pontiff expressed his “heartfelt closeness” to the Filipino faithful, particularly those who lost loved ones and homes in the disaster.

“I express my closeness to the beloved Filipino people, and in particular, I pray for those who have been most harshly affected by the consequences of the earthquake,” Pope Leo said in Italian during his message.

He urged Catholics around the world to remain steadfast in faith amid tragedy. “Let us remain united and solidary in our trust in God and in the intercession of His Mother in every danger,” he added, encouraging believers to extend compassion and aid to affected communities.

The Pope’s message marked the second time he has reached out to the Philippines since the quake.

Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy said Leo had earlier conveyed his sympathies through Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Charles John Brown, on October 2.

Uy, who was appointed by Pope Leo as Cebu’s archbishop, said the pontiff’s words “bring comfort and hope” to the local clergy and faithful grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy. He also directed all parishes to conduct assessments of their church structures to ensure the safety of parishioners.(Xienderlyn Trinidad, USJ-R Comm Intern)