As part of a four-day immersive trip across Leyte organized by AirAsia Philippines, members of the media, including LionhearTV, were given the opportunity to visit one of the province’s most historic and spiritually significant sites: The Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration, more popularly known as Palo Cathedral.
For many devout Catholics, the cathedral holds deep significance. It was among the sacred sites visited by Pope Francis during his apostolic and state visit to the Philippines in January 2015. Despite heavy rains, the pontiff braved the weather to celebrate Mass in Tacloban, standing in solidarity with survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan)—one of the most devastating storms to ever hit the Philippines.
In the wake of Pope Francis’ recent passing, the Palo Cathedral has urged the faithful to remember the late pope’s message of hope delivered during that storm-stricken visit: that Christ remains present in sorrow.
Located in Brgy. Luntad, Palo, Leyte, the cathedral is more than a religious monument—it is a testament to faith, survival, and history. First established by Jesuits in 1596, the structure has withstood centuries of change, shifting hands among Augustinians (1768) and Franciscans (1843), before being declared a cathedral on March 25, 1938, with Msgr. Manuel Mascariñas as its first bishop.
The cathedral’s architecture reflects a blend of Spanish colonial and modern styles, and is home to the historic Kimball Pipe Organ, Opus 6718, installed in 2015. Its imposing Gothic façade and massive towers evoke grandeur reminiscent of fictional Gotham, with flying bats occasionally seen gliding between belfries—adding character to the church’s already cinematic silhouette.
During World War II, the church served as a hospital and shelter for wounded soldiers between October 1944 and March 1945. And in November 2013, it once again became a refuge—this time for survivors of Typhoon Yolanda. Though the typhoon destroyed its roofing, the cathedral’s resilient stone walls provided sanctuary amid tragedy.
The grounds also serve as one of the mass graves for victims of Yolanda. Known as the Garden of Angels, the site is estimated to hold around 1,000 victims, with 291 names identified as of 2018. On January 17, 2015, Pope Francis personally visited and blessed the grave site, offering prayers for those who perished during the typhoon.
Now fully rehabilitated, the cathedral boasts carefully landscaped gardens and remains an active center of worship, hosting weddings, recollections, and religious ceremonies. It continues to stand as a powerful symbol of faith and recovery—not just for Palo, but for the entire country.
With 28 weekly flights to Tacloban—the main gateway to Leyte—AirAsia Philippines offers affordable travel options for those seeking a meaningful journey. And for those who want to reconnect with heritage and spirituality, Palo Cathedral is an essential stop.
