Radyo Katipunan 87.9 FM, the community radio station of the Ateneo de Manila University, successfully concluded its special coverage of the 2025 Papal Conclave and the historic inauguration of Pope Leo XIV—the first American pope in Church history.
The station’s extensive broadcast, produced in collaboration with the Roman Catholic Dioceses of Cubao and Novaliches, as well as Vatican Media, offered Filipino listeners a front-row seat to one of the most sacred transitions in the Catholic Church.
The coverage began on May 7th with “Ang Bagong Pastol: Paghahanap sa Susunod na Santo Papa,” hosted by JMM Director Lester Mendola and Leannah Villajos. Featuring commentary from Fr. Michell Joe Zerudo, the program contextualized the Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice Mass as a communal prayer for guidance in choosing the Church’s next shepherd. The liturgy, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, drew attention to themes of unity and discernment, amplified by the presence of 133 electors, including three Filipino cardinals—Luis Antonio Tagle, Pablo Virgillo David, and Jose Advincula.
Later that evening, Radyo Katipunan joined global Catholic networks in broadcasting the solemn entry of the cardinal-electors into the renowned Sistine Chapel. With analysis from Vatican Media’s Kelsey Gussie and Christopher Wells, audiences learned about conclave protocols, the oath of secrecy, and the profound rituals that mark the beginning of the voting process—culminating in the locking of the chapel with the iconic “Extra Omnes.”
On May 9th, Radyo Katipunan aired Pope Leo XIV’s first Mass with the College of Cardinals. In his homily, the Chicago-born pontiff called for a Church that goes beyond structures, choosing instead mission, mercy, and the two greatest commandments: love of God and neighbor. His motto—“In illo uno unum” (“In the One, we are one”)—echoed his Augustinian spirit of unity.
The journey reached its peak on May 18th, with live coverage of Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass at St. Peter’s Square. Before a crowd of tens of thousands, the pope received the pallium and the Ring of the Fisherman from Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle—symbols connecting him to the apostolic lineage of St. Peter. In addition, the rite of obedience now includes not only cardinals but also lay representatives, underscoring the evolving character of Church leadership.
This milestone coverage not only marked a first for Radyo Katipunan in international religious journalism but also reaffirmed its role in values-driven programming and public service. The groundbreaking event followed the renewal of Radyo Katipunan’s partnership with Ateneo de Manila last February through the OAVP-SEEDS initiative, strengthening the station’s community and university engagements.
With humility and innovation, Radyo Katipunan continues to serve as a vital bridge between faith and Filipino audiences, from Loyola Heights—and now—to the Vatican.
(AMDG)
