Washington, D.C. — The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) joins the global community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 in Vatican City as it claims that the legacy of the beloved Pope lives on
In a statement, NaFFAA highly regards “Lolo Kiko”, as he was affectionately known by Filipinos, as a “transformative figure whose humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the marginalized deeply resonated with Filipino communities worldwide. “
NaFFAA endearingly recalled that Pope Francis embraced Filipino children during his historic 2015 visit to the Philippines, radiating warmth and compassion as “Lolo Kiko,” the beloved grandfather figure to millions. His legacy of love, humility, and service continues to inspire Filipino communities around the world.
His historic visit to the Philippines in 2015, particularly to Tacloban in the wake of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), became a defining moment of hope and healing, and in doing so, Pope Francis touched the hearts of people across all faiths with his compassion, simplicity, and powerful commitment to the poor and vulnerable.
Lolo Kiko’s statement still rings clear in the ears of many Filipinos particularly “I’m here to be with you… I’ve come to tell you that Jesus is Lord and He never lets us down” while he stood before thousands amid stormy skies adding, “All I can do is keep silent. And I walk with you all with my silent heart,” offering a message of shared grief and deep solidarity.
NaFFAA National Chair Mariela Fletcher shared that seeing Pope Francis pass by her group in Manila during the visit was a moment she would never forget reflecting on this legacy.
“His message in Tacloban reminded us that even in the hardest times, we are not alone,” Fletcher recalled. “Pope Francis showed the world that true leadership means walking beside those who suffer.”
NaFFAA National President Ryan Namata emphasized how the Pope’s message continues to resonate. “Pope Francis lived with deep compassion and humility,” Namata said. “His legacy challenges all of us—regardless of background—to lead with kindness, to serve others, and to help build a more caring and unified world.”
As NaFFAA remembers the life of Pope Francis, we encourage Filipino Americans and all communities to carry forward his spirit of empathy, justice, and hope. Whether through small acts of kindness or bold steps toward greater inclusion, each of us can help create a brighter, more compassionate future—one that reflects the values Pope Francis so passionately lived.
Since 1997, the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) has been the standard bearer for promoting the welfare and well-being of the four million Filipinos and Filipino Americans throughout the United States. At the time of NaFFAA’s inception, there were just over 2.5 million Filipinos and Filipino Americans. Founding members of the organization had the foresight to visualize and organize our growing power and voice into the next millennium.
Now with over 4.2 million Filipinos across the United States, and with Filipinos considered as the second-largest Asian American group, NaFFAA is the largest non-partisan, non-profit organization, and national affiliation of Filipino American institutions, organizations, and individuals. Its thirteen-member regions cover the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Pacific Islands.
