Jessica Soho and GMA Public Affairs Join World Filipinos to the Coronary heart of the Vatican
When the world heard about the passing of Pope Francis in April, it was a moment that touched millions—especially here in the Philippines, where so many people find comfort and guidance in their faith. In those days of quiet reflection and shared sorrow, GMA Public Affairs stepped up to make sure Filipinos could be part of something much bigger, even from across the globe.
Jessica Soho, who’s known for her honesty and warmth as a journalist, jumped on a plane to Rome not long after the news broke. She became one of the first Filipino reporters allowed by the Vatican to cover the whole process—from the Pope’s funeral to the meetings and ceremonies that would lead to a new Pope being chosen.
Standing among the crowds at St. Peter’s Basilica, Jessica kept everyone at home updated, often just using her phone to send quick videos and messages. Even with fancy equipment available, she made it feel personal, like she was talking directly to friends and family back home.
Thanks to GMA Public Affairs’ huge online following, her reports reached millions—over 47 million views, in fact. That just shows how much people cared about what was happening, and how much they trusted Jessica to tell the story.
On her show, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, there were two special episodes: one remembering Pope Francis and all he meant to people, and another following the journey to the new Pope, Leo XIV. Both shows drew big audiences, proving that Jessica and her team have a real connection with their viewers, even when covering events on the world stage.
But it wasn’t just about the big moments. Jessica made sure to shine a light on the Filipinos living and working in Rome—pilgrims, seminarians, and priests who serve in the Vatican. Before the conclave, she joined a Thanksgiving Mass led by Cardinal Luis Tagle, and even got to read the Prayers of the Faithful. She also had a chance to talk with Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, head of the CBCP.
When the white smoke finally rose over the Sistine Chapel, Jessica was right there in St. Peter’s Square to see the new Pope, Leo XIV, step out. At his first meeting with the press, Jessica presented him with a zucchetto to bless, carrying the hopes and prayers of the whole country. She asked the Pope for a special blessing for the Philippines, especially as the nation prepared for its midterm elections.
Through all of this, GMA Public Affairs and Jessica Soho built a real connection between Filipinos everywhere and the heart of the Catholic world. Because of their work, Filipinos didn’t just watch history—they felt like they were right there, part of the story.
