STO. TOMAS’ PADRE PIO SHRINE DECLARED INTERNATIONAL SHRINE

STO. TOMAS CITY, BATANGAS — The National Shrine and Parish of St. Padre Pio in Sto. Tomas City was formally declared an international shrine on Wednesday, September 23, marking a significant milestone for the Catholic community in the Philippines.

The declaration makes the St. Padre Pio Shrine only the second Catholic shrine in the Philippines to receive the international designation, highlighting its growing significance as a place of pilgrimage and devotion.

The formal declaration was held at the shrine in Sto. Tomas City, drawing clergy, devotees, and members of the Catholic community for the historic occasion.

The recognition further establishes the shrine as a destination for pilgrims, particularly devotees of St. Padre Pio, whose life and spirituality have inspired Catholics around the world.

The designation also places the shrine among Catholic pilgrimage sites recognized for their wider international significance, providing greater visibility to the Philippines as a destination for religious pilgrimage.

The National Shrine and Parish of St. Padre Pio has long attracted devotees seeking prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

With its new status as an international shrine, the church is expected to welcome more pilgrims from the Philippines and abroad.