The National Shrine and Parish of St. Padre Pio in Sto. Tomas, Batangas has been officially elevated to an International Shrine by the Vatican. The announcement was made through a social media post by the shrine, confirming receipt of the Decree from the Dicastery for Evangelization.
Decree Issued on Saint's Birthday
The decree was issued on May 25, 2026, which coincided with the 139th birth anniversary of St. Padre Pio. The solemn declaration of the new international shrine will take place on September 23, 2026, the feast day of St. Padre Pio.
"May this historic milestone inspire us to deepen our faith and devotion as we journey together in prayer and thanksgiving," the shrine said in its announcement.
Background of the Elevation
The process began in July 2024 when the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) endorsed the shrine's bid for international recognition. Under Canon Law, the approval of the Holy See is required for a church to be designated as an international shrine.
The Philippines now has two international shrines: the newly elevated Padre Pio Shrine and the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo City.
