Planning a south road trip? Add this to the list.

The St. Padre Pio shrine in Santo Tomas City, Batangas, was formally declared an international shrine last Wednesday, September 23, which is also Padre Pio's feast day.

Why it's a big deal

It's only the second international shrine in the Philippines. The first is the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo.

Quick facts

  • The Vatican decree was issued on May 25, 2026, Padre Pio's 139th birth anniversary.

  • The complex covers 12 hectares.

  • It holds first-class relics of St. Padre Pio.

  • It started as a small chapel in 2003, became an archdiocesan shrine in 2008 and a national shrine in 2015.

What's changing

The shrine plans Masses in English and other languages, plus ministries for pilgrims and confession.

CBCP President and Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera called it "a living haven of medical, physical, and spiritual healing."

Whether you're going for faith, peace of mind or a quiet break from the city, it's an easy day trip from Metro Manila.