Will Pope Francis return to the Philippines in 2016?

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle on Monday revealed the possibility that Pope Francis will return in the country next year for the International Eucharistic Congress.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEe6FVYcRb1e2U9lE9dhj04nEv8sFJVHM8D6I_Dag-ps9YkMvllYQJKd2L7KZuHhJNPcKu0HFIpikHZoGPR3LbcWc6pFf4gQZlc-KTQlVBS1NeuEi4vqHiiTpozPfNJSaA7xzU6dkWQwKi/s1600/Cardinal-Tagle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle" border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEe6FVYcRb1e2U9lE9dhj04nEv8sFJVHM8D6I_Dag-ps9YkMvllYQJKd2L7KZuHhJNPcKu0HFIpikHZoGPR3LbcWc6pFf4gQZlc-KTQlVBS1NeuEi4vqHiiTpozPfNJSaA7xzU6dkWQwKi/s1600/Cardinal-Tagle.png" title="Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption">Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle | Screenshot from Youtube</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Tagle said Pope Francis has been invited by the Catholic Bishop's Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to the event in January 2016.<br /><br />In the press conference held after the departure of the Vatican pontiff on Monday morning, Tagle added that the congress will be held in Cebu. Meanwhile, the Pope has yet to decide whether he will come to the eucharistic event.<br /><br />''Ngayon, dahil nga nagpunta na siya para sa ''Mercy and Compassion'', tignan natin. Kung pupunta siya, wow! Salamat,'' Tagle said.<br /><br />The 51st International Eucharistic Congress will be held in Cebu from January 24 to 31 next year, with an expected 15,000 local and international delegates.<br /><br /><b>WATCH: Tagle's reaction on inquiry about Pope Francis visit in the country in 2016 (courtesy of DZMM/ABS-CBN News)</b><br /><br /><center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/QZZfoTKMNbk" width="600"></iframe></center><br /></div>

Will Pope Francis return to the Philippines in 2016?

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle on Monday revealed the possibility that Pope Francis will return in the ...

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LIVESTREAM: Meeting with the Youth in UST (January 18, 2015)

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis itinerary for today, January 18, 2015, Day 4 of his visit in the country will go as planned as His Holiness will meet and bless large crowds for the Meeting with the Youth at the Sports Field of University of Santo Tomas (UST).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuRumQbGShcJTpw0lWD65crxg0djPM1Ba9diWD8uiIwhIb-RI_obBCjIUe0o3K8hYOayYxGoZA845j5rIwHjYP_nmfda4L25BhSRVvzS5jgPJ5MAQ5YCW5ioKadEhO0bfZrdkkho9vDMg/s1600/Pope-UST.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Religious, elderly and youth gathered up early in UST to see Pope Francis." border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuRumQbGShcJTpw0lWD65crxg0djPM1Ba9diWD8uiIwhIb-RI_obBCjIUe0o3K8hYOayYxGoZA845j5rIwHjYP_nmfda4L25BhSRVvzS5jgPJ5MAQ5YCW5ioKadEhO0bfZrdkkho9vDMg/s1600/Pope-UST.jpg" title="Religious, elderly and youth gathered up early in UST to see Pope Francis." width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Religious, elderly and youth gathered up early in UST to see Pope Francis.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Reports said an estimate of 24,000 representatives from the youth sector set for an encounter this morning.<br /><br />In the youth meeting which is open to the public, Pope Francis will deliver his message, followed by prayers and intercessions to be given by 7 youth delegates, speaking in different dialects, from different parts of the country.<br /><br />The Pope will also lead the praying of the Angelus at around noon, afterwhich he would leave the university.<br /><br />Early on Sunday, thousands flock to the university trying to inch closer to the gates of UST. <br /><br />Pope Francis is scheduled also to meet religious leaders of the 404-year-old University of Santo Tomas in Manila. <br /><br />The Vatican pontiff's visit to the Philippines traditionally include an audience inside the Dominican-run university, honored with the title "pontifical" by Pope Leo XIII in 1902.<br /><br /><b>Sunday, January, 18, 2015 Papal Visit Schedule</b><br /><br />09:45 Brief Meeting with the Religious Leaders of the Philippines at the Pontifical University of Santo Tomas in Manila <br /><br />10:30 MEETING WITH THE YOUTH at the Sports Field of the University <br /><br />15:30 HOLY MASS at Rizal Park in Manila <br /><br /><b>Here's the official livestream feed of Papal Visit Activities in the University of Santo Tomas</b> (video courtesy of RTVMalacañang):<br /><br /><center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/gKDmiGmC3rE" width="600"></iframe></center><br /><br />Alternative Livestream Channel: Pope in Philippines - Meeting with the Youth (Courtesy of Vatican)<br /><center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/GyzUDHnhvYc" width="600"></iframe></center><br /></div>

LIVESTREAM: Meeting with the Youth in UST (January 18, 2015)

MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis itinerary for today, January 18, 2015, Day 4 of his visit in the country will go as planned as His Holine...

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'Bagyong Amang' makes landfall in Dolores, Samar; Signal No. 1 up in Metro Manila

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - 'Bagyong Amang' (Mekkhala) has made landfall over Dolores, Eastern Samar at 3:00 in the afternoon on Saturday, January 17 and is now crossing Northern, Samar.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7YNQ4z9dCKxLiTD-7-voE-mCGqQr_-Q9hK9Xtzlk_fjPMNoI6q5zgfOutnoA7GRfCrxAK0RBs9oVMmsx1jm-_572RCo0XPblDRodqfOsa8-ca8We6yA8PwGwlZLlbjTxLCrJJ7wfUcqW/s1600/Typhoon-Amang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="'Bagyong Amang' makes landfall in Dolores, Samar; Signal No. 1 up in Metro Manila" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7YNQ4z9dCKxLiTD-7-voE-mCGqQr_-Q9hK9Xtzlk_fjPMNoI6q5zgfOutnoA7GRfCrxAK0RBs9oVMmsx1jm-_572RCo0XPblDRodqfOsa8-ca8We6yA8PwGwlZLlbjTxLCrJJ7wfUcqW/s1600/Typhoon-Amang.jpg" title="'Bagyong Amang' makes landfall in Dolores, Samar; Signal No. 1 up in Metro Manila" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br />At 4:00pm today, the center of 'Bagyong Amang' was estimated based on Doppler Radar and all available data at 60 km North Northeast of Borongan City, Eastern Samar (12.1°N, 125.6°E).<br /><br />'Amang' has maximum sustained winds of 100 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 130 kph. It is forecast to move Northwest at 19 kph.<br /><br /><b>Forecast Positions</b>:<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>24 hour (Tomorrow afternoon, January 18): 115 km East Infanta, Quezon.</li><li>48 hour (Monday afternoon, January 19): 155 km East Northeast of Aparri, Cagayan.</li><li>72 hour (Tuesday afternoon, January 20): 415 km East Northeast of Basco, Batanes.</li></ul><br /><br /><b>Public Storm Warning Signal No. 2</b> (Winds of 61-100 kph is expected in at least 24 hrs):<br /><br /><b>LUZON</b>: Catanduanes, Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Southern Quezon Incl. Polillo Island, Sorsogon, Masbate, Burias Island Incl. Ticao Island.<br /><br /><b>VISAYAS</b>: Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar and Biliran.<br /><br /><b>IMPACTS OF THE WIND:</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Rice and corn maybe adversely affected</li><li>Few large trees uprooted</li><li>Large number of nipa and cogon houses partially or totally unroofed and old galvanized iron roofs may roll off.</li><li>Billboards/Signage may roll off</li><li>Travel by all types of sea vessels and aircrafts are risky</li></ul><br /><br />These areas will have stormy weather with heavy to intense rains. Residents along coastal areas are alerted against possible Storm surges of less than 2 meters.<br /><br /><b>Public Storm Warning Signal No. 1</b> (Winds of 30-60 kph is expected in at least 36 hrs)<br /><b><br /></b><b>LUZON</b> : Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Batangas, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Quirino, Isabela, Rest of Quezon, Marinduque, Oriental Mindoro and Romblon.<br /><br /><b>VISAYAS</b>: Leyte, Southern Leyte, Extreme Northern Cebu Incl. Bantayan Island and Camotes Island.<br /><br /><b>IMPACTS OF THE WIND</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Twigs and branches of trees maybe broken</li><li>Some banana plants may tilt or land flat on the ground</li><li>Rice in flowering stage may suffer significant damage</li><li>Some nipa and cogon houses maybe partially unroofed</li><li>Sea travel of small sea crafts and fishing boats is risky</li><li>These areas will have occasional rains with occasional gusty winds.</li></ul><br /><br />The estimated rainfall amount is from 7.5 – 20 mm per hour (heavy - intense) within the 400 km diameter of the Tropical Storm.<br /><br />Residents in low lying and mountainous areas of the provinces with PSWS#2 and #1 are alerted against possible flashfloods and landslides. <br /><br />Ocean waves may reach up to 9 meters within the diameter of the storm.<br /><br />Fisherfolks and those with small seacrafts are advised not to venture out over the seaboards of Luzon, Visayas and the eastern seaboard of Mindanao.</div>

'Bagyong Amang' makes landfall in Dolores, Samar; Signal No. 1 up in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines - 'Bagyong Amang' (Mekkhala) has made landfall over Dolores, Eastern Samar at 3:00 in the afternoon on Saturday,...

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27-year old woman dies in accident after Tacloban Papal Mass

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">TACLOBAN, Philippines - A 27-year-old woman from Bicol died at Tacloban airport just after the Mass officiated by Pope Francis on Saturday afternoon, January 17.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiDwovwBCMIF2O8Pi611RdFgpEpfAUIo_gRoNmTEqrMSqKf71D50ooICERSeiKoZsdrJ-ENZk0vApnJ1JuJAfUiMvJidpY9KlCMxvaoumDxWLpbWubATpsVR7v96D4ttPCrCT2gN43b49/s1600/Woman-died-Tacloban.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Papal mass volunteer died after a freak accident" border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiDwovwBCMIF2O8Pi611RdFgpEpfAUIo_gRoNmTEqrMSqKf71D50ooICERSeiKoZsdrJ-ENZk0vApnJ1JuJAfUiMvJidpY9KlCMxvaoumDxWLpbWubATpsVR7v96D4ttPCrCT2gN43b49/s1600/Woman-died-Tacloban.jpg" title="Papal mass volunteer died after a freak accident" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papal mass volunteer died after a freak accident | Credit: UCAN/ABS-CBN News</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Yolanda aid worker Kristel Mae Padasas was dead on arrival at around 2 pm at the St Paul's Hospital in Tacloban City. She worked with the Catholic Relief Service during the Yolanda humanitarian crisis.<br /><br />Fr. Amadeo Alvero, Palo Archdiocese' Social Communications Director said the accident was due to scaffoldings of a speaker near the altar that fell on her.<br /><br />The scaffolding hit her in the chest and pinned her to the ground. Health Secretary Janette Garin said the cause of death was "massive blood loss."<br /><br />"Nahulog dahil sa hangin," he noted, adding that the large crowd that gathered for the event had nothing to do with the accident.<br /><br />Alvero added that Padasas was one of many volunteers helping at the mass the pope, which police said attracted a crowd of about 200,000 people.<br /><br />Pope Francis cut short his trip to Leyte due to bad weather condition as tropical storm Amang (Mekkhala) threatens Eastern Visayas. Amang is the first storm or typhoon to hit the Philippines this 2015.</div>

27-year old woman dies in accident after Tacloban Papal Mass

TACLOBAN, Philippines - A 27-year-old woman from Bicol died at Tacloban airport just after the Mass officiated by Pope Francis on Saturday a...

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IN PHOTOS: Plane carrying Palace officials skids off Tacloban runway

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">TACLOBAN, Philippines - A private plane carrrying 11 government officials skidded off the runway of Tacloban International Airport in few minutes after Pope Francis departure on Saturday afternoon.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghjHI6Qsqp45pzwXkgtsnpwf6PleKDEoQz8TkbYvI13K5vhi5WOQk-jR77wyuR0EcuP906uOInoqVAah6w2gP_XIFhqMCi37vKsPQiXKlwl_1okdXwdIAbgfhQM-9pybZsRTGj2w3G-ZFE/s1600/Plane-skids-off-tacloban-runway2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Private plane carrying cabinet officials skids off runway" border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghjHI6Qsqp45pzwXkgtsnpwf6PleKDEoQz8TkbYvI13K5vhi5WOQk-jR77wyuR0EcuP906uOInoqVAah6w2gP_XIFhqMCi37vKsPQiXKlwl_1okdXwdIAbgfhQM-9pybZsRTGj2w3G-ZFE/s1600/Plane-skids-off-tacloban-runway2.jpg" title="Private plane carrying cabinet officials skids off runway" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Private plane carrying cabinet officials skids off runway | Credit: @jeffcanoy</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa and Communications Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. were on board the Global Express Bombardier jet. Those on board also includes Undersecretary Emmanuel Bautista and the officials’ staff and security.<br /><br />Cabinet officials were in Tacloban for the Papal visit in Tacloban City, Leyte.<br /><br />Police official in Tacloban said all 11 people onboard the plane are safe.<br /><br />MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino, who was on a separate plane, said the first plane was already taxiing and ready to take off when something happened.<br /><br />"Kapansin-pansin sa mga nanonood na nagbago ang arangkada ng eroplano," he said. <br /><br /><b>Here are some photos of the accident at Daniel Z. Romualdez airport in Tacloban City</b> (Photos courtesy of <a href="https://twitter.com/jeffcanoy/status/556340545123921920" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jeff Canoy via Twitter</a>)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaHpqj9Cdxwf7FAoZXzp54DiWzOZXIBsBUeJk0bjCIHclHVsVYoFR73hYvT3P1FZYXsCxv9Ds1sC3deZySoIuWrIy4oZCL_622KUVRmfWK450gYbKfsBzdFVfs7SDdIy1WzE-c1zm5c-lY/s1600/Plane-skids-off-tacloban-runway1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Global Express Bombardier jet skids off runway" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaHpqj9Cdxwf7FAoZXzp54DiWzOZXIBsBUeJk0bjCIHclHVsVYoFR73hYvT3P1FZYXsCxv9Ds1sC3deZySoIuWrIy4oZCL_622KUVRmfWK450gYbKfsBzdFVfs7SDdIy1WzE-c1zm5c-lY/s1600/Plane-skids-off-tacloban-runway1.jpg" title="Global Express Bombardier jet skids off runway" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LI2-TlwJtDFh549W9oPLvSKC6xk-P0GnuM1j5hfnn5unX3QA9GZ_tIjBn6-sUFoXRGQDA0tGA8dQgWRYBhS4GnEjiKLXOLRnm_TE76YJQjQufAGibsdWsSx-AWEUU3lfmGFp0ztmGqQM/s1600/Plane-skids-off-tacloban-runway3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Global Express Bombardier jet skids off runway" border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LI2-TlwJtDFh549W9oPLvSKC6xk-P0GnuM1j5hfnn5unX3QA9GZ_tIjBn6-sUFoXRGQDA0tGA8dQgWRYBhS4GnEjiKLXOLRnm_TE76YJQjQufAGibsdWsSx-AWEUU3lfmGFp0ztmGqQM/s1600/Plane-skids-off-tacloban-runway3.jpg" title="Global Express Bombardier jet skids off runway" width="560" /></a></div><br />Tacloban officials at the airport said they heard what seemed like an explosion on one of the tires before the rented plane by government skidded the runway.<br /><br />Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda in a statement said that passengers of the plane did not sustain any injuries and families of those on board have also been notified that the passengers are safe.<br /><br />“The President was happy to hear that all on board were safe and directed the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to investigate whether the proximate cause of the incident was weather-related or otherwise,” Lacierda said.<br /><br />PAGASA raised Storm Signal No. 2 over Northern Samar, Eastern Samar and Samar and Leyte including Biliran due to Tropical Storm Amang.</div>

IN PHOTOS: Plane carrying Palace officials skids off Tacloban runway

TACLOBAN, Philippines - A private plane carrrying 11 government officials skidded off the runway of Tacloban International Airport in few mi...

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LIVESTREAM: Pope Francis now in Tacloban for Holy Mass (January 17, 2015)

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis still pursue to visit Eastern Visayas despite Typhoon 'Amang' signal no. 2 risk in the province as he scheduled to offer a holy mass near Tacloban International Airport today, January 17, 2015.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tpkE_fDPeXPtZANPiEQbSvbG_KKtBy2eTijiTYaO8DO8wFZ4KSR7lKFssjOlYFALzoda4NlDdN9Zy65LaU6p2aoC85JCpcovzBmmspuquhYcn81OzZltR2LWZ_GUlcXPad8IDl3vumDB/s1600/Pope-in-Tacloban.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="LIVESTREAM: Pope Francis now in Tacloban for Holy Mass" border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tpkE_fDPeXPtZANPiEQbSvbG_KKtBy2eTijiTYaO8DO8wFZ4KSR7lKFssjOlYFALzoda4NlDdN9Zy65LaU6p2aoC85JCpcovzBmmspuquhYcn81OzZltR2LWZ_GUlcXPad8IDl3vumDB/s1600/Pope-in-Tacloban.png" title="LIVESTREAM: Pope Francis now in Tacloban for Holy Mass" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br />Pope Francis departs Villamor Air Base in Pasay City via Philippine Airlines (PAL) PR 8010 to Leyte. The pope has arrived in Tacloban around 8:45 in the morning.<br /><br />Thousands of Yolanda survivors are waiting for the pontiff despite the bad weather condition. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ODkE6arB9TwUCN1DCX5l4ja_SgObHAURKQXh6XTODwOai1HjNE63VLMtQ3C7_eK10DFSwjXsYCcGmdBJNR_V_Wnow0ws-1LHPY3B-1Y92lh19Okva6rRTOWzp2CoeGJjhZt5N_WTBcas/s1600/Tacloban-papal-visit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Thousands of Yolanda survivors are waiting for Pope Francis" border="0" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ODkE6arB9TwUCN1DCX5l4ja_SgObHAURKQXh6XTODwOai1HjNE63VLMtQ3C7_eK10DFSwjXsYCcGmdBJNR_V_Wnow0ws-1LHPY3B-1Y92lh19Okva6rRTOWzp2CoeGJjhZt5N_WTBcas/s1600/Tacloban-papal-visit.jpg" title="Thousands of Yolanda survivors are waiting for Pope Francis" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thousands of Yolanda survivors are waiting for Pope Francis in Tacloban Airport</td></tr></tbody></table>Aside from the mass, Pope Francis will also visit the Archdiocese of Palo and will have lunch with the poor and survivors of natural calamities at the residence of the Archbishop (12:45pm). Afterwards he will bless the Pope Francis Center for the Poor in Palo (3:00pm), and visit the Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration (Palo Cathedral) to meet with priests and religious leaders (3:30).<br /><br />The pontiff will leave Tacloban at 5:00 in the afternoon with expected arrival of around 6:15pm at Villamor Air Base.<br /><br /><b>Here's the official Livestream feed of Pope's visit to Tacloban</b> <b>(video courtesy of RTV Malacanang):</b><br /><br /><center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/orzsc5HS0gg" width="600"></iframe></center></div>

LIVESTREAM: Pope Francis now in Tacloban for Holy Mass (January 17, 2015)

MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis still pursue to visit Eastern Visayas despite Typhoon 'Amang' signal no. 2 risk in the province a...

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FULL TRANSCRIPT and VIDEO: Pope Francis delivers speech at the Malacanang Palace

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis delivered his speech during the meeting with President Benigno 'PNoy' Aquino III, civil authorities and diplomatic corps at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacang Palace on Friday morning, January 16, 2015.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdLc2kFekjC-vxSdVTKNdLfUfdk8o6gselZQULjQ0vHk75s2MCQvUNZu4LsZm8sl8aG4d9O4EhCSRj28HDUdejjgu6Fv_8ta8RbMvCrlfkOtVvwWf7A2a4Be7rInl2B947FqRCzxValKV/s1600/Pope-Francis-Malacanang01162015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="FULL TRANSCRIPT and VIDEO: Pope Francis speech at the Malacanang Palace" border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdLc2kFekjC-vxSdVTKNdLfUfdk8o6gselZQULjQ0vHk75s2MCQvUNZu4LsZm8sl8aG4d9O4EhCSRj28HDUdejjgu6Fv_8ta8RbMvCrlfkOtVvwWf7A2a4Be7rInl2B947FqRCzxValKV/s1600/Pope-Francis-Malacanang01162015.jpg" title="FULL TRANSCRIPT and VIDEO: Pope Francis speech at the Malacanang Palace" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br />The full transcript and video are now available online courtesy of RTV Malacanang.<br /><br />Pope Francis said he is most grateful for the invitation to visit the Philippines and emphasized that it is above all pastoral and in preparation for the the fifth centenary of the first proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the country.<br /><br />The pope also expressed his closeness to all brothers and sisters who endured the suffering, loss and devastation caused by Typhoon Yolanda. <br /><br />"Today the Philippines, together with many other countries in Asia, faces the challenge of building on solid foundations a modern society – a society respectful of authentic human values, protective of our Godgiven human dignity and rights, and ready to confront new and complex political and ethical questions.," the pope added.<br /><br /><b>WATCH: Joint Statement of President Aquino and Pope Francis (January 16, 2015)</b><br /><br /><center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/70ElS4nJ63U" width="600"></iframe></center><br /><b><br /></b><b>Here's the full statement of His Holiness Pope Francis at the Malacanang Palace:</b><br /><br />"Ladies and Gentlemen, <br /><br />I thank you, Mr President, for your kind welcome and for your words of greeting in the name of the authorities and people of the Philippines, and the distinguished members of the Diplomatic Corps. I am most grateful for your invitation to visit the Philippines. My visit is above all pastoral. It comes as the Church in this country is preparing to celebrate the fifth centenary of the first proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ on these shores. The Christian message has had an immense influence on Filipino culture. It is my hope that this important anniversary will point to its continuing fruitfulness and its potential to inspire a society worthy of the goodness, dignity and aspirations of the Filipino people. <br /><br />In a particular way, this visit is meant to express my closeness to our brothers and sisters who endured the suffering, loss and devastation caused by Typhoon Yolanda. Together with many people throughout the world, I have admired the heroic strength, faith and resilience demonstrated by so many Filipinos in the face of this natural disaster, and so many others. Those virtues, rooted not least in the hope and solidarity instilled by Christian faith, gave rise to an outpouring of goodness and generosity, especially on the part of so many of the young. In that moment of national crisis, countless people came to the aid of their neighbors in need. At great sacrifice, they gave of their time and resources, creating networks of mutual help and working for the common good. <br /><br />This example of solidarity in the work of rebuilding teaches us an important lesson. Like a family, every society draws on its deepest resources in order to face new challenges. Today the Philippines, together with many other countries in Asia, faces the challenge of building on solid foundations a modern society – a society respectful of authentic human values, protective of our Godgiven human dignity and rights, and ready to confront new and complex political and ethical questions. As many voices in your nation have pointed out, it is now, more than ever, necessary that political leaders be outstanding for honesty, integrity and commitment to the common good. In this way they will help preserve the rich human and natural resources with which God has blessed this country. Thus will they be able to marshall the moral resources needed to face the demands of the present, and to pass on to coming generations a society of authentic justice, solidarity and peace. <br /><br />Essential to the attainment of these national goals is the moral imperative of ensuring social justice and respect for human dignity. The great biblical tradition enjoins on all peoples the duty to hear the voice of the poor. It bids us break the bonds of injustice and oppression which give rise to glaring, and indeed scandalous, social inequalities. Reforming the social structures which perpetuate poverty and the exclusion of the poor first requires a conversion of mind and heart. The Bishops of the Philippines have asked that this year be set aside as the “Year of the Poor”. I hope that this prophetic summons will challenge everyone, at all levels of society, to reject every form of corruption which diverts resources from the poor, and to make concerted efforts to ensure the inclusion of every man and woman and child in the life of the community. <br /><br />A fundamental role in the renewal of society is played, of course, by the family and especially by young people. A highlight of my visit will be my meetings with families and with young people here in Manila. Families have an indispensable mission in society. It is in the family that children are trained in sound values, high ideals and genuine concern for others. But like all God’s gifts, the family can also be disfigured and destroyed. It needs our support. We know how difficult it is for our democracies today to preserve and defend such basic human values as respect for the inviolable dignity of each human person, respect for the rights of conscience and religious freedom, and respect for the inalienable right to life, beginning with that of the unborn and extending to that of the elderly and infirm. For this reason, families and local communities must be encouraged and assisted in their efforts to transmit to our young the values and the vision which can help bring about a culture of integrity – one which honors goodness, truthfulness, fidelity and solidarity as the firm foundation and the moral glue which holds society together. <br /><br />Mr President, distinguished authorities, dear friends: <br /><br />As I begin my visit to this country, I cannot fail to mention the Philippines’ important role in fostering understanding and cooperation among the countries of Asia. I would also mention the of neglected yet real contribution of Filipinos of the diaspora to the life and welfare of the societies in which they live. It is precisely in the light of the rich cultural and religious heritage of which your country is proud that I leave you with a challenge and a word of prayerful encouragement. May the deepest spiritual values of the Filipino people continue to find expression in your efforts to provide your fellow citizens with an integral human development. In this way, each person will be able to fulfill his or her potential, and thus contribute wisely and well to the future of this country. I am confident that the praiseworthy efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation between the followers of the different religions will prove fruitful in the pursuit of this noble goal. In a particular way, I express my trust that the progress made in bringing peace to the south of the country will result in just solutions in accord with the nation’s founding principles and respectful of the inalienable rights of all, including the indigenous peoples and religious minorities. <br /><br />Upon all of you, and upon all the men, women and children of this beloved nation, I cordially invoke God’s abundant blessings."</div>

FULL TRANSCRIPT and VIDEO: Pope Francis delivers speech at the Malacanang Palace

MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis delivered his speech during the meeting with President Benigno 'PNoy' Aquino III, civil authoriti...

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Pope Francis in PH: Schedule, closed roads Guide in Metro Manila

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Welcome to the Philippines Pope Francis (Lolo Kiko)!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzCMTHIZW1s5XTR_uf738EOL77NIXyRj2-fZaKOl51If5gasvDSjPFTb5IX35QSzxTkxqKDYd4_8huRa0rVoPFbl-qXRxzeM-1i6y5WdGH8QeA4vHH7cmtQftVUqQaK81nlhpUcQdXmj6/s1600/papal-visit-2015-coverage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pope Francis in PH: Schedule, Itinerary, closed roads in Metro Manila" border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzCMTHIZW1s5XTR_uf738EOL77NIXyRj2-fZaKOl51If5gasvDSjPFTb5IX35QSzxTkxqKDYd4_8huRa0rVoPFbl-qXRxzeM-1i6y5WdGH8QeA4vHH7cmtQftVUqQaK81nlhpUcQdXmj6/s1600/papal-visit-2015-coverage.jpg" title="Pope Francis in PH: Schedule, Itinerary, closed roads in Metro Manila" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br />From January 15-19, 2015, His Holiness Pope Francis will bring his message of “mercy and compassion” to at least 11 different venues in the province of Leyte and Metro Manila during his Apostolic Visit to the Philippines.<br /><br />Pope Francis is expected to arrive in Manila from Sri Lanka, the first leg of his Asian trip, by plane around 5:45pm on Thurday, January 15, and will go on a motorcade to his official residence at the Apostolic Nunciature in Taft Avenue, Manila.<br /><br />On January 16, Pope Francis will be officially welcomed by President Benigno 'PNoy' S. Aquino III at the Malacañan Palace on J. P. Laurel Street in Manila. The Pope will also meet Philippine authorities and members of the diplomatic corps.<br /><br />After the Palace reception, Pope Francis will go on a motorcade to the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Manila Cathedral) in Intramuros for a Mass with bishops, priests, and women and men religious. Later, he will have an encounter with families at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.<br /><br />In Leyte Province in Eastern Visayas, Pope Francis will visit the Archdiocese of Palo. He will offer Mass near Tacloban Airport in the morning of January 17 and will have lunch with the poor and survivors of natural calamities at the residence of the Archbishop of Palo. Afterwards he will bless the Pope Francis Center for the Poor in Palo, and visit the Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration (Palo Cathedral) to meet with priests and women and men religious.<br /><br />On January 18, the Pope will meet religious leaders and young people at the Pontifical University of Santo Tomas in Manila. In the afternoon, he will go on a motorcade for the Concluding Mass at Quirino Grandstand in Rizal (Luneta) Park.<br /><br />Pope Francis will leave the country on January 19.<br /><br /><b>Here's the Official Apostolic Trip of Pope Francis (January 15-19, 2015): </b><br /><br /><b>Thursday 15 January 2015</b><br />17:45 Arrival at Villamor Air Base in Manila (OFFICIAL WELCOME)<br /><br /><b>Friday 16 January 2015</b><br />09:15 WELCOME CEREMONY at the Malacañan Palace <br />COURTESY VISIT TO THE PRESIDENT <br /><br />10:15 MEETING WITH THE AUTHORITIES and the DIPLOMATIC CORPS at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Presidential Palace <br /><br />11:15 HOLY MASS with the bishops, priests, women and men religious at the Cathedral – Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Manila <br /><br />17:30 MEETING with the FAMILIES at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila <br /><br /><b>Saturday 17 January 2015</b><br />08:15 Departure by plane from Manila for Tacloban <br /><br />09:30 Arrival at the airport of Tacloban <br /><br />10:00 HOLY MASS near Tacloban International Airport <br /><br />12:45 Lunch with some of the survivors of typhoon Yolanda at the Archbishop’s Residence in Palo <br /><br />15:00 Blessing of the Pope Francis Center for the Poor <br /><br />15:30 MEETING with the Priests, Women and Men Religious, Seminarians and Families of the Survivors at the Cathedral of Palo <br /><br />17:00 Departure by plane for Manila <br /><br />18:15 Arrival at Villamor Air Base in Manila <br /><br /><b>Sunday 18 January 2015</b><br />09:45 Brief Meeting with the Religious Leaders of the Philippines at the Pontifical University of Santo Tomas in Manila <br /><br />10:30 MEETING WITH THE YOUTH at the Sports Field of the University <br /><br />15:30 HOLY MASS at Rizal Park in Manila <br /><br /><b>Monday 19 January 2015</b><br />09:45 Leave Taking Ceremony at the Presidential Pavilion of Villamor Air Base in Manila <br /><br />10:00 Departure by plane from Manila for Rome <br /><br />17:40 Arrival at the airport of Rome/Ciampino <br /><br /><br /><b>Metro Manila roads closed for Papal visit</b><br /><br /><center><iframe height="460" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=zb5XYGzmpdjM.kODpmK6RVGfU" width="600"></iframe></center><br /><b>January 15, Thursday</b><br /><br />Starting 3 p.m. for Pope's arrival at Villamor Air Base<br /><br /><b>Main Routes</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Villamor Air Base Gate 5 - 5.50 km</li><li>Andrews Ave - 2.32 km</li><li>Domestic Road - 1.60 km</li><li>NAIA Road - 1.60 km</li><li>Roxas Boulevard - 10.64 km</li><li>Quirino Ave 1.98 km</li><li>Taft Avenue - 0.26 km</li></ul><b>Other roads</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Sales Bridge - 2.32 km</li><li>SLEX/Skyway to Magallanes - 3.84 km</li><li>Osmena Highway - 9.12 km</li><li>Quirino Avenue - 1.86 km</li><li>Alternate routes</li></ul><br />The MMDA also advised motorists to take these alternate routes during the Pope's five-day state and pastoral visit, but warned that heavy traffic may ensue due to the closure of major roadways.<br /><br /><b>From Sucat Road Northbound:</b><br /><br />Along Kabihasnan, turn right at Coastal Road, turn left at Pacific Avenue, turn right at Macapagal Boulevard, turn right at EDSA, turn left at Arnaiz Avenue, turn right at Amorsolo Street, turn left at Rufino Street, turn right at Chino Roces Avenue, turn left at J.P. Rizal, straight to Tejeron, to destination.<br /><br /><b>From EDSA to Coastal:</b><br /><br />Along EDSA, turn left at Macapagal Boulevard, left at Pacific Avenue, turn right at Coastal Road, to destination.<br /><br /><b>From Taft Avenue to Manila:</b><br /><br />Option 1: Along Taft Avenue, turn right at P. Ocampo Street, turn right at Arellano Avenue, turn left at Zobel Roxas, turn left at Onyx, to destination.<br /><br />Option 2: Along Taft Avenue, turn right at Ocampo Street, turn left at Arellano Avenue, left at Estrada, turn right at Singalong, right at Esguerra, turn left at Angel Linao, to destination.<br /><br /><b>From Luneta to Paco:</b><br /><br />From Luneta, take TM Kalaw or Pedro Gil, to destination.<br />From Taft Avenue / Ayala Boulevard to Santa Ana:<br />Along Taft, turn left at Pedro Gil, to destination.<br /><br /><b><br /></b> <b>January 16, Friday</b><br /><b><br /></b> Starting 6 a.m. for Pope's Malacañang visit<br /><br /><b>Main routes</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Taft Avenue</li><li>Pres. Quirino Avenue</li><li>Nagtahan</li><li>JP Laurel to destination</li></ul><br /><b>Other routes</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Pres. Quirino Avenue</li><li>Roxas Boulevard</li><li>P. Burgos</li><li>Finance Road</li><li>Ayala Boulevard</li><li>P. Casal</li><li>Gen. Solano to destination</li><li>Alternate routes</li></ul><br /><br /><b>Along Taft Avenue Northbound</b><br /><br />Along Taft Avenue, turn right at P. Ocampo Street, turn left at Arellano Street, left at Estrada Street, turn right at Singalong, right at Esguerra, turn left at Angel Linao to Gen. Luna St. to Romualdez Street / Belen, turn right at Padre Faura to destination.<br /><br />Along Taft Avenue Southbound<br /><br />Along Taft Avenue, turn right at Padre Faura, left at M. Adriatico or MH Del Pilar, to destination<br /><br />Along Pres. Osmeña Highway Northbound<br /><br />Along Pres. Osmeña Highway, turn right at San Andres, turn left at A. Francisco Street, left at Onyx Street, turn right at Pedro Gil, straight to New Panaderos, turn left at F. Sanchez, left at V. Mapa, straight to R. Magsaysay Boulevard, to destination.<br /><br />Along Quezon Boulevard Southbound<br /><br />Along Quezon Boulevard, straight to P. Burgos, turn left at Maria Orosa, turn right at TM Kalaw, turn left at J. Bacobo, turn right at Padre Faura, turn left at M. Adriatico or MH Del Pilar, to destination.<br /><br />Along Roxas Boulevard to Makati<br /><br />Along Roxas Boulevard, turn right at Buendia Avenue, to destination<br /><br />Starting 8 a.m. for Pope's Manila Cathedral audience<br /><br />Principal route<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Gen. Solano</li><li>P. Casal</li><li>Ayala Boulevard</li><li>Finance Road</li><li>P. Burgos Avenue</li><li>Bonifacio Drive</li><li>Anda Circle</li><li>Andres Solano Jr. Avenue to destination</li></ul><br /><b>Other roads</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Dr. Jose P. Laurel</li><li>Nagtahan Bridge</li><li>Guazon Avenue to UN Avenue</li><li>Maria Orosa</li><li>Finance Road</li><li>Gen. Luna to destination</li><li>Alternate routes</li></ul><br /><br />Along R-10 Eastbound<br /><br />Along R-10, take service road then turn left at CM Recto, turn left at Legarda, to R. Magsaysay Boulevard, to destination.<br /><br />Along R-10 Southbound<br /><br />Along R-10, take service road then turn left at Muelle Dela Industria at Barcelona, turn right at San Fernando, right at Juan Luna, turn left at San Vicente, turn right at Jones Bridge, to destination.<br /><br />All vehicles utilizing Jones Bridge, McArthur Bridge and Quezon Bridge<br /><br />Take Lagusnilad, to Taft Avenue, take northbound lane<br /><br />Along Roxas Boulevard Northbound<br /><br />Along Roxas Boulevard, turn right at TM Kalaw, turn left at Taft Avenue, straight to P. Burgos, take Jones Bridge, to Q. Paredes, straight to Reina Regente, to CM Recto, to destination.<br /><br />Along AH Lacson Wesbound<br /><br />Along AH Lacson, turn right at Legarda, right at CM Recto, take U-turn then right at Quezon Boulevard, to destination.<br /><br />Starting 10 a.m. for Pope's travel to the Nunciature<br /><br />Main route<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Gen. Luna</li><li>Soriano Avenue</li><li>Anda Circle</li><li>Bonifacio Drive</li><li>Roxas Boulevard</li><li>Quirino Avenue</li><li>Taft Avenue to destination</li></ul><br />Other roads<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>P. Burgos</li><li>Finance Road</li></ul><br /><b><br /></b><b>Alternate routes</b><br /><br />All vehicles utilizing Jones Bridge, McArthur Bridge and Quezon Bridge Southbound<br /><br />Option 1: Take Lagusnilad to Taft Avenue (take northbound lane), turn left at Pedro Gil / Malvar / Remedios, turn right at Singalong, right at Estrada, to destination.<br /><br />Option 2: Along P. Burgos, turn left at Maria Orosa, turn right at TM Kalaw, turn left at MH Del Pilar, left at Pedro Gil, turn right at M. Adriatico, to destination.<br /><br />Along Taft Avenue Northbound<br /><br />Along Taft Avenue, turn right at P. Ocampo Street, turn left at Arellano, left at Estrada, turn right at Singalong, right at Esguerra, left at Angel Linao to Gen. Luna, turn right at Romualdez, straight to Natividad Lopez, to destination.<br /><br />Along R-10 Southbound<br /><br />Along R-10, take service road then turn left at Muelle Dela Industria, left at Barcelona, right at San Fernando, right at Juan Luna, left at San Vicente, right at Jones Bridge, to destination.<br /><br />Alongn R-10 Southbound<br /><br />Along R-10, take service road then left at CM Recto, left at Legarda, left at Nagtahan, straight to Pres. Quirino Avenue, turn left at Pres. Osmeña Highway, to destination.<br /><br />Along Roxas Boulevard Northbound<br /><br />Along Roxas Boulevard, turn right at Vito Cruz, right at Arellano, left at Zobel Roxas Avenue, left at Pres. Osmeña Highway, right at Pres. Quirino Avenue, left at Legarda, straight to CM Recto, to destination.<br /><br />Starting 4 p.m. for Pope's travel to the SM Mall of Asia (MOA Arena) for meeting with families<br /><br />Main route<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Taft Avenue - 0.26 km</li><li>Quirino Avenue - 1.98 km</li><li>Roxas Boulevard - 6.26 km</li><li>EDSA - 1.64 km</li><li>Mall of Asia - 0.56 km</li><li>JW Diokno Boulevard - 0.50 km</li></ul><br /><br /><b>Other roads</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>P. Ocampo - 1.94 km</li><li>Bukaneg - 1.30 km</li></ul><br /><b>How to get there</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Attendees may use tributary roads proceeding to the ceremonial route.</li><li>Attendees may proceed to the immediate vicinity of the ceremonial rought starting 1 p.m.</li><li>Attendees may only occupy the portion of the road assigned to them once the route has been cleared and upon the signal of the security personnel assigned there.</li><li>Motorists coming from the north side can use Macapagal Boulevard until 3 p.m. hrough the sea side to reach SM Mall of Asia and park at designated parking areas. Motorists coming frmo the south side may use the drop-off point in the vicinity of EDSA extension / Diokno Avenue and walk to the venue.</li><li>Attendees may start entering the SM MOA Arena at 11 a.m.. The gates will close at 3:30 p.m.</li><li>Alternate routes from 2 p.m. onwards</li></ul><br /><br />Along Roxas Boulevard Southbound<br /><br />Along Roxas, turn left at TM Kalaw or Pedro Gil, to destination<br /><br />All vehicles utilizing three bridges (Jones Bridge, McArthur Bridge and Quezon Bridge)<br /><br />Take Lagusnilad to Taft Avenue, turn left at Pedro Gil, turn right at Singalong, turn left at Pres. Quirino Avenue, turn right at Pres. Osmeña Highway, to destination.<br /><br />Along Pres. Quirino Southbuond<br /><br />Along Quirino, turn left at Pres. Osmeña Highway, to destination.<br /><br />Along Pres. Quirino Northbound<br /><br />Along Quirino, take Plaza Dilao to Quirino Extension, turn left at UN Avenue, to destination.<br /><br />Along Taft Avenue NorthboundA<br /><br />Along Taft, turn right at Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, take U-turn to Domingo Street, right at Vito Cruz, turn left at Arellano, left at Estrada, turn right at Singalong, right at Esguerra, turn left at Angel Linao, to destination.<br /><br />Along Coastal Road/Roxas Boulevard<br /><br />Along Coastal Road/Roxas Boulevard, turn right at EDSA, to destination.<br /><br /><b>January 17, Saturday</b><br /><br />Starting 4:30 a.m. for Pope's travel to Villamor Air Base, where he will take off for Tacloban City<br /><br />Main route<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Taft Avenue - 0.26 km</li><li>Quirino Avenue - 1.98 km</li><li>Osmeña Highway - 9.12 km</li><li>SLEX to Magallanes - 3.84 km</li><li>Sales Bridge to destination - 2.32 km</li></ul><br /><b>Other roads:</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Roxas Boulevard - 10.64 km</li><li>NAIA Road - 1.60 km</li><li>Domestic Road - 2.32 km</li><li>Andrews Avenue to destination - 5.50 km</li><li>Starting 3 p.m. for Pope's travel fro Kalayaan Lounge to Apostolic Nunciature (closed vehicle)</li></ul><br /><b>Principal route</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Sales Bridge to Skyway Ramp - 2.32 km</li><li>Osmena Highway - 3.84 km</li><li>Quirino Avenue - 9.12 km</li><li>Taft Avenue to destination - 0.26 km</li></ul><br /><b>Other roads</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Villamor Air Base Gate 5 - 5.50 km</li><li>Andrews Avenue - 2.32 km</li><li>Domestic Road - 2.32 km</li><li>NAIA Road - 1.60 km</li><li>Roxas Bouevard - 10.64 km</li></ul><br /><b>January 18, Sunday</b><br />Starting 6:30 a.m. for Pope's travel to the University of Santo Tomas (UST)<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Taft Avenue</li><li>Quirino Avenue to Nagtahan to Lacson Avenue</li><li>España Boulevard to UST Gate</li></ul><br /><br />Starting 8:30 a.m.<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Quezon Bridge to Quezon Boulevard</li><li>Lerma Street to España to UST</li></ul><br /><br />Starting 8:30 a.m. for Pope's travel to Rizal Park (Luneta) / Quirino Grandstand<br /><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Taft Avenue</li><li>UN Avenue to Maria Orosa Street</li><li>P. Burgos</li><li>Roxas Boulevard</li><li>South Drive to Ocean Park entrance</li></ul><br />Starting 10:30 a.m.<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Taft Avenue to Quirino Avenue</li><li>Roxas Boulevard</li><li>Kalaw Avenue</li><li>Maria Orosa Street</li><li>P. Burgos</li><li>Roxas Boulevard</li><li>South Drive to Ocean Park</li></ul><br /><b>January 19, Monday</b><br /><br />Starting 6 a.m. for Pope's travel to the Villamor Air Base, where he will take off for Rome<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Taft Avenue</li><li>Quirino Avenue</li><li>Roxas Boulevard</li><li>NAIA Road</li><li>Domestic Road</li><li>Airport Road to Andrews Avenue</li><li>Villamor Air Base Gate 5</li></ul><br />Starting 8 a.m.<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Taft Avenue</li><li>Quirino Avenue</li><li>Osmeña Highway</li><li>SLEX to Magallanes</li><li>SLEX to Sales Bridge</li><li>Villamor Air Base Gate 5</li></ul><br /><br />MMDA also announced on Thursday that number coding is lifted on January 15,16 and 19 in Metro Manila, including Makati & Las Piñas.</div>

Pope Francis in PH: Schedule, closed roads Guide in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines - Welcome to the Philippines Pope Francis (Lolo Kiko)! From January 15-19, 2015, His Holiness Pope Francis will bring hi...

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ABS-CBN, GMA News bring multi-platform coverage for Pope Francis visit in PH

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Leading broadcast networks in the country ABS-CBN and GMA bring special news coverage via multiplatform channels for the historic papal visit from January 15-19, 2015.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTyfaRxrGk_-h5kGqJ9kZ2VKFEtOPvS7i4YnicSS13916v0GKg8_Sx0dQdqEtscQ68sUJyJeLKEFzLNQdAQbm9FNsX2KVqwAzkWOe5tL9CoCFnqcrL6DbvtDadurSeJ98Of4efsSdJM75/s1600/ABS-CBNs-multiplatform-coverage-of-the-papal-visit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ABS-CBN brings multi-platform coverage for Pope Francis visit in PH" border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTyfaRxrGk_-h5kGqJ9kZ2VKFEtOPvS7i4YnicSS13916v0GKg8_Sx0dQdqEtscQ68sUJyJeLKEFzLNQdAQbm9FNsX2KVqwAzkWOe5tL9CoCFnqcrL6DbvtDadurSeJ98Of4efsSdJM75/s1600/ABS-CBNs-multiplatform-coverage-of-the-papal-visit.jpg" title="ABS-CBN brings multi-platform coverage for Pope Francis visit in PH" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>ABS-CBN News: Pope Francis sa Pilipinas "Thank You Sa Malasakit"</b><br /><br />Through up-to-date reports and special features, ABS-CBN will deliver all the latest developments on its news platforms on free and cable TV, radio, and online: ABS-CBN Channel 2, ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), DZMM TeleRadyo, DZMM Radyo Patrol Sais Trenta, and their websites and social media accounts.<br /><br />ABS-CBN, ANC, and DZMM will broadcast live all the Masses to be celebrated by Pope Francis at the Manila Cathedral (January 16), in Tacloban (January 17), and in Luneta (January 18). Aside from that, ABS-CBN will offer free public viewing of the Luneta Mass at Alabang Town Center, Glorietta, Trinoma, Fairview Terraces, Market Market, and Harbor Point in Metro Manila and in more than 50 locations nationwide.<br /><br />No stone will be left unturned when ANC brings its wall-to-wall coverage of the historic visit with nonstop live updates from all the events beginning the morning of January 15, while DZMM will cover the papal visit starting at noon on January 15.<br /><br />Boosting ABS-CBN’s news coverage are the Pope Patrollers of citizen journalism arm “Bayan Mo, iPatrol Mo” who will be closely monitoring all the on-ground papal events in Manila and Tacloban. The Pope Patrollers will document the events as they unfold in photos and videos, which will capture the mood and emotions of the people during the five-day papal visit.<br /><br />All of the Pope Patrollers’ works will be highlighted in special sections on ABS-CBNNews.com/PopeFrancisPH, which also houses all TV reports and interactive multimedia features about Pope Francis.<br /><br />Filipinos on the go may also check all the latest papal visit-related developments on their mobile devices by watching ABS-CBN’s consolidated videos and features in the PopeTYSM (Pope Thank You Sa Malasakit) channel on iWanTV.com.ph or the iWanTV app using an ABS-CBNmobile SIM.<br /><br />Filipinos abroad can also keep track of the latest developments of the papal visit via The Filipino Channel (TFC), which will air its special live coverage of the event from January 17 to 19 and a documentary titled “Pope Francis: In the Eyes of Four Filipinos,” which features four different members of the clergy who share a very special, albeit experience — a rare interaction with the Holy See.<br /><br />With Vatican Media correspondent Lynda Jumilla who is joining the papal flight, ABS-CBN’s “Thank You sa Malasakit: Pope Francis sa Pilipinas” coverage will be led by veteran broadcast journalists Noli De Castro, Korina Sanchez, Ted Failon, Tina Monzon-Palma, Karen Davila, Ces Drilon, Julius Babao, Alvin Elchico, Bernadette Sembrano, Henry Omaga Diaz, Vic Lima, Bro. Jun Banaag, Winnie Cordero, Ariel Ureta, Pinky Webb, TJ Manotoc, Ron Cruz, Coco Alcuaz, Gigi Grande, Karmina Constantino, and David Celdran.<br /><br /><b>GMA News: "Ang People's Pope sa Pilipinas" Special Coverage</b><br /><br /><center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/wE7zQ3IR2Jc" width="600"></iframe></center><br />Aside from radio and TV broadcast, GMA News also partnered with various malls and establishments nationwide to present the special coverage of Pope Francis' visit.<br /><br />The following malls have agreed to show GMA News' live special coverage via big screens:<br /><br /><b>MEGA MANILA</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>SM North Edsa</li><li>SM Manila</li><li>SM San Lazaro</li><li>SM Sta. Mesa</li><li>SM Marikina</li><li>SM Masinag</li><li>SM Taytay</li><li>SM Novaliches</li><li>SM Fairview</li><li>SM BF Paranque</li></ul><br /><br /><b>LUZON</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>City Walk Mall, Tarlac</li><li>SM Clark</li><li>SM San Fernando, Downtown</li><li>SM Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecijia</li><li>LCC Mall Legazpi</li><li>LCC Mall Naga</li><li>LCC Mall Polangui</li></ul><br /><br /><b>VISAYAS-MINDANAO</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The District Ayala Mall, Bacolod</li><li>Public Plaza, Bacolod</li><li>Marymart Mall, Iloilo</li><li>GT Mall, Iloilo</li><li>Gaisano Mall, Davao City</li><li>Abreeza Ayala Mall, Davao City</li><li>Limketkai Mall, CdeO</li><li>Gaisano Mall, CdeO</li><li>Centrio Mall, CdeO</li><li>Provincial Capitol, Misamis Oriental</li></ul><br /><br />These bus companies will also join in showing the live coverage of the papal visit on their fleets:<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>G Liner</li><li>Fariñas Bus Transit</li><li>Five Star Bus company (including bus stations)</li></ul><br /><br />Mercury Drug in Quiapo also agreed to show GMA News' special coverage through their big screen.<br /><br />The special coverage can be followed from:<br /><br />January 15, Thursday: Arrival Of Pope And Open Air Motorcade<br />GMA 7: 5:15pm – 8:00pm<br /><br />January 16, Friday: Manila Cathedral Mass<br />GNTV Channel 11: 11:15am – 1:30pm, 5:00pm – 8:30pm<br /><br />January 17, Saturday: Going to Tacloban City<br />GNTV Channel 11: 9:30am-7:00pm<br /><br />January 18, Sunday: Pope Travels from Nunciature to UST, UST Motorcade, Meets w/ Young People<br />GMA 7: 9:45am –12:00pm, 2:00pm – 6:00pm</div>

ABS-CBN, GMA News bring multi-platform coverage for Pope Francis visit in PH

MANILA, Philippines - Leading broadcast networks in the country ABS-CBN and GMA bring special news coverage via multiplatform channels for t...

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DOLE releases pay rules for Papal Visit special non-working days in NCR on January 15, 16, and 19, 2015

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said private business employers must observe proper pay rules and core labor standards for their workers on January 15, 16, and 19, 2015 which have been declared under Proclamation No. 936 as special non-working days in Metro Manila due to the much-awaited visit to the Philippines of His Holiness Pope Francis, the Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and Head of the State of the Vatican.<br /><br />President Benigno S. Aquino III issued Proclamation No. 936 on December 22, 2014 through Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr.<br /><br />“In view of the Proclamation, I enjoin all private sector employers in Metro Manila to observe the proper pay rules for the benefit of their workers,” said Baldoz after she issued Labor Advisory No. 14 Series of 2014 on December 29, 2014.<br /><br />Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said the Labor Advisory states the pay rules applicable for the special non-working days as follows:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxKQjPILpGrZq5bJCGFBCSN4vxRJfZvSbnFCs585a5wUefU07QEJXPHoftw3HBuiYJiBbbruECB5xFAlQPlF9zkTBuVD2216lUxwU1ecl_x5CMuKbwUyVVhrRgZZR5dPaTa5WA2oer-T3x/s1600/holidaypaymatrix-dole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DOLE Pay Rules papal visit" border="0" height="570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxKQjPILpGrZq5bJCGFBCSN4vxRJfZvSbnFCs585a5wUefU07QEJXPHoftw3HBuiYJiBbbruECB5xFAlQPlF9zkTBuVD2216lUxwU1ecl_x5CMuKbwUyVVhrRgZZR5dPaTa5WA2oer-T3x/s1600/holidaypaymatrix-dole.jpg" title="DOLE Pay Rules papal visit" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br />If the employee did not work, the “no-work, no-pay” principle shall apply, unless there is a favorable company policy, practice, or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) granting payment on a special day;<br /><br />If the employee worked, he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her daily rate on the first eight hours of work [(daily rate x 130 percent) + COLA];<br /><br />If the employee worked in excess of 8 hours (overtime work), he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her hourly rate on said day (hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 130 percent x 130 percent x number of hours worked);<br /><br />If the employee worked during a special day that also falls on his or her rest day, he or she shall be paid an additional 50 percent of his or her daily rate on the first 8 hours of work [(daily rate x 150 percent) + COLA];<br /><br />If the employee worked in excess of 8 hours (overtime work) during a special day that also falls on his or her rest day, he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her hourly rate on said day (hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 150 percent x 130 percent x number of hours worked).<br /><br />Pope Francis’ visit is scheduled from 15 to 19 January 2015. During these dates, the Roman Catholic Church has lined up several religious activities in Manila that pay tribute to and express their faith through a joyful celebration. Filipinos who profess the Catholic faith are expected to join and participate in the five-day celebration as a way of showing support to the Catholic Church and its head.</div>

DOLE releases pay rules for Papal Visit special non-working days in NCR on January 15, 16, and 19, 2015

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said private business employers must observe proper pay rules and core l...

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January 15, 16 and 19, 2015 are special holidays in Metro Manila

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno 'PNoy' Aquino III on Tuesday officially declared January 15, 16 and 19 as special, non-working holidays in Metro Manila or NCR for the much-awaited visit of Pope Francis.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q0PPcrWAlTMWYqYm3rVJ3n6SR522bbhAOK26woArCkrtMGPna8Kn347XcptGU02gHxotCw-77bWJIcnbGq7sSMyg4c-_1h1eTY4BYx13eJ-ALWQhfaq7xaq2Es6wMbq5LFy37r2WBuvq/s1600/holiday-papal-visit-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="January 15, 16 and 19, 2015 are special holidays in Metro Manila" border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q0PPcrWAlTMWYqYm3rVJ3n6SR522bbhAOK26woArCkrtMGPna8Kn347XcptGU02gHxotCw-77bWJIcnbGq7sSMyg4c-_1h1eTY4BYx13eJ-ALWQhfaq7xaq2Es6wMbq5LFy37r2WBuvq/s1600/holiday-papal-visit-2015.jpg" title="January 15, 16 and 19, 2015 are special holidays in Metro Manila" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br />"In view of the visit of the Pope, the Head of State of the Vatican City, I, PAQUITO N. OCHOA JR., Executive Secretary, by authority of His Excellency, BENIGNO S. AQUINO III, do hereby declare January 15, 16 and 19, 2015, as special (non-working) days in the National Capital Region (NCR)," proclamation No. 936 stated.<br /><br />"I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed," Ochoa said in the declaration.<br /><br />Activities for the papal visit include arrival at Villamor Air Base (January 15); courtesy call on Aquino in Malacañang, mass for the clergy and religious people at the Manila Cathedral and meeting with families at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City (January 16).<br /><br />Pope Francis will condole with victims of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in Tacloban City on January 17. A day after, the pope is scheduled to celebrate a mass at Rizal Park and meet religious leaders and youth representatives at University of Sto. Tomas (UST). He will depart for Rome in the morning of January 19.<br /><br />In November, Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada declared a five-day holiday in government offices and suspended classes in all levels during the papal visit.<br /><br />Fellow mayors of Estrada also passed a resolution for Aquino to declare the entire papal visit (January 15 to 19, 2015) as non-working holiday as the event is expected to induce traffic congestion brought about by congregation of devotees and well-wishers.<br /><br />In 1995, papal holiday was also declared as Pope John Paul II has visited Manila for World Youth Day.</div>

January 15, 16 and 19, 2015 are special holidays in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno 'PNoy' Aquino III on Tuesday officially declared January 15, 16 and 19 as special, non-worki...

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BSP's 3 new limited edition commemorative coins now available

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) announced that three new limited edition commemorative coins are available starting today, Monday, December 22, 2014.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzQ1uAvd40khA0wYihC9R62ikOOja0XKpForv5Tj-YmohoZVUc_tOkSbuQq3WAiGKIL4OA5j4-EuJUXDy_MAR-EDdRBCga5iws7P2Lt99uxPqyybVy3TipdHns85X2zsI6-nT3vTr2msY/s1600/bsp-new-commemorative-coins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="BSP's 3 new limited edition commemorative coins " border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzQ1uAvd40khA0wYihC9R62ikOOja0XKpForv5Tj-YmohoZVUc_tOkSbuQq3WAiGKIL4OA5j4-EuJUXDy_MAR-EDdRBCga5iws7P2Lt99uxPqyybVy3TipdHns85X2zsI6-nT3vTr2msY/s1600/bsp-new-commemorative-coins.jpg" title="BSP's 3 new limited edition commemorative coins " width="560" /></a></div><br /><br />The new coins commemorate the following:<br /><br />1. The Bagong Bayani Commemorative Coin in honor of Overseas Filipinos on the 5-piso circulating coin;<br />2. The 150th year of Philippine Hero Apolinario Mabini on the 10-piso circulating coin; and<br />3. The Leyte Landing which was a turning point for the liberation of the Philippines during World War II on the 5-piso circulating coin<br /><br />The public can avail of these coins at the cash departments of BSP offices in Manila and Quezon City, managing director of currency management sub-sector Iluminada Sicat said in the press briefing on Friday.<br /><br />"There will be 10 million pieces available for sale and there will be 20,000 in brilliant, uncirculated pack," she said, noting the coins will be sold at face value.<br /><br />We'll try to make them available also to banks so that the banks could help us in distributing the coins," she added.<br /><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></div>"As a matter of policy, the BSP commemorates significant events and heroic Filipinos in our country’s history through the minting of coins, medals or overprints on our banknotes," BSP said in a statement.<br /><br />The most recent commemorative circulation coins issued by the BSP were for the 150th year of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal in 2011 and the 150th year of Philippine Hero Andres Bonifacio in 2013.<br /><br />The BSP also announced the minting by the BSP of 50-piso and 500-piso commemorative coins in time for the Papal visit in January 2015.</div>

BSP's 3 new limited edition commemorative coins now available

MANILA, Philippines - The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) announced that three new limited edition commemorative coins are available start...

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