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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'Pope Jeep’ back in spotlight as Filipinos mourn Pope Francis’ passing

'Pope Jeep’ back in spotlight as Filipinos mourn Pope Francis’ passing

Published Apr 25, 2025 05:39 am
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The Popemobile used by Pope Francis during his 2015 papal visit to the Philippines is displayed outside Quiapo Church in Manila on April 25, 2025. Often called the “Pope Jeep,” the popemobile is currently being toured at the request of various churches to honor his memory. A standee of Pope Francis is placed on the vehicle, which is next scheduled to be displayed at a church in Makati. (Contributed photo)

As the Catholic Church mourns the death of Pope Francis, the jeepney-inspired popemobile during his 2015 visit to the Philippines has drawn renewed attention from the public.

Built in 2014 by a Filipino team under Special Project ATPI, the vehicle was designed as a donation at the request of then-Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.

Emiliano Lorenzo, a member of the team, recalled in an interview with GMA that the jeepney-inspired design, which was submitted to the Vatican and later approved, reflected its connection to Filipino tradition.

Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, was known for his desire to remain close to the faithful and consistently refused bulletproof popemobiles.

He preferred a non-armored, open-air vehicle so he could shake hands with the crowd and reach out to children, Lorenzo said.

Lorenzo added that the pope jeepney was a reimagined Philippine jeepney, equipped with a new engine and chassis while retaining its cultural exterior.

“We’re happy to be part of history. We will preserve it; as you can see, it’s been 10 years, but it’s still in great condition,” he said.

The vehicle was displayed at the compound of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno in Quiapo, Manila on Friday, April 25, before being moved to Santuario de San Antonio Parish in Makati City, where it will remain until Sunday, April 27.

During the 2015 World Youth Day, Tagle fondly recalled the Pope’s reaction to the vehicle. 

“He exclaimed, ‘Oh a jeepney!’ I explained to him the jeepney is the most common way of commute and used by simple people. He loved it,” Tagle said.

The cardinal even joked that they were considering sending it to Rome as a gift.

Condolence books

Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) announced that books of condolence will be available for the public to sign at the Apostolic Nunciature in Manila from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29. 

The CBCP invited Filipinos to share memories or leave messages in honor of the late pontiff.

Masses have been held across the country in memory of Pope Francis, who served as the 266th pope following his election in March 2013. 

His funeral Mass is set for Saturday, April 26 at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, to be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals. 

Afterward, his remains will be brought to the Basilica of St. Mary Major for burial.

Related Tags

Pope Jeep Popemobile CBCP Pope Francis
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