In this issue

They say that April showers bring May flowers, and even if we’re short on water these days, we can still find so many reasons to keep on blooming—especially in this issue, which is just bursting with happy thoughts and bright ideas. First off, we can find inspiration in Mang Nanie Guanlao, whose 24/7 library passion project has brought the joy of reading to so many bookworms, and the team of college students behind the Bathala Rocket Stove, an invention that has changed the lives of the Dumagat tribe. If you’re still in need of a pick-me-up, just turn to page 44, where our easy tips will help you nurture a fertile mindset that’s so vital for flourishing in all aspects of life.
And of course, the merry month of May would not be complete without a tribute to mothers everywhere—as well as a very special mother to us all, Mama Mary! In fact, our dear Pope Francis even has a very special devotion to Our Lady (page 20) and encourages us all to seek her intercession. And because motherhood is truly an honourable calling, we’ve made it a point to honour selfless mothers everywhere with a gift guide full of super-thoughtful presents any mom would love (page 36). To tug on your heartstrings even more, we also give you an intimate glimpse into the mother-child relationships of personalities like Zsa Zsa Padilla and Karylle (page 32).
Last but not the least, we bring you not one, but two patron saints of motherhood: St. Monica, whose steadfast faith was instrumental in the conversion of her son, St. Augustine, and St. Gianna Beretta Molla, who is considered as a modern-day, working mom saint. For indeed, with the ups and downs of life, it never hurts to have love, guidance, and support from above.

Burning Bright

This team of young inventors has made life better for an indigenous tribe in Bulacan.

2 mins

Pathway Of Love

Be inspired by this school community’s ephemeral work of art.

2 mins

The Discovery Of The True Cross

A pious mother searches for a holy relic in the beautiful tradition that is the Santacruzan.

2 mins

One For The Books

Nanie Guanlao affirms the law of giving and receiving through his informal library.

3 mins

Meet Mingoy

This Negrense foundation is on a mission to fight hunger and poverty one voyage at a time.

2 mins

Hail, Mary!

We dedicate the merry month of May to Christ’s mother.

1 min

THE SAINT'S Daughter

St. Gianna Beretta Molla was canonized on May 16, 2004. Her daughter Dr. Emanuela Molla tells us about the working mom saint, and her face-to-face encounter with Pope Francis.

3 mins

A Mother's Prayer

St. Monica’s life of piety and charity paved the way for the conversion of her beloved son, St. Augustine.

3 mins

Read all stories from My Pope Philippines

My Pope Philippines Magazine Description:

My Pope Philippines is an adapted English version of Italian magazine, Il Mio Papa, dedicated entirely to Pope Francis. Every month, My Pope describes the life of the Holy Father, an emotional ride of meetings, words, and simple gestures of his daily life that highlight the important message of change that permeates his pontificate.
At least 65% of the content is international and 35% is created by the local editorial team in the Philippines to feature stories highlighting the encouraging developments in the lives of Filipinos, whose values and actions reflect those that the Pope stands for, with sections on good news, inspiring stories, traditions, arts and crafts and everyday heroes.