WATCH: Local theme song released for Papal visit in Leyte

by Derek Alviola for Rappler.com | Published 5:00 AM, Jan 14, 2015, Updated 5:00 AM, Jan 14, 2015

TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines – The Archdiocese of Palo, through its Commission on Youth, released a local theme song entitled “Shepherd’s Love” as one of the songs that will be performed during Pope Francis’ visit in Leyte on January 17.

The theme song – a combination of both English and local dialects – was composed by Fr. Kim C. Margallo of Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Ormoc City. Margallo, who is director of the youth commission of the Archdiocese of Palo, also serves as the overall head of the volunteer management communications committee for the papal visit in Leyte. (READ: Possible storm could cancel Pope’s Leyte trip)

Fr. Margallo said that this local theme song was written in July 19, 2014 and was inspired by the love and care of Pope Francis for the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda(Haiyan).

Two teenagers from Ormoc City, and a child from Palo, Leyte, were handpicked by Fr Margallo to sing “Shepherd’s Love.” They are Elaine Mae Emping, Paul de Pio and Juliana Rose Estrera.

REHEARSAL. 176 performers from Ormoc City show the dance steps of the song “Shepherd’s Love” to 2,000 mobilized volunteers for the Leyte Papal visit. Photo from Derek Aviola/ Rappler

Emping said she feels both honored and overwhelmed to be chosen to sing for Pope Francis.

“I am excited but we need to practice very well because we will be singing this not only in front of the Pope but also to the large crowd of pilgrims,” she adds.

Lone male artist de Pio revealed that preparing to sing for the Pope’s historical visit takes not only physical and mental preparedness but, more importantly, spiritual preparedness.

Fr. Margallo exclusively shared to Rappler the official music video for this local theme song, which was produced by Pixel 8 Productions. – Rappler.com

Derek Alviola is a MovePH citizen journalist from Leyte covering the visit of Pope Francis to the province.