ROME — The Philippines and the Holy See marked the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations on Friday with a Eucharistic celebration at the Santuario di San Giovanni Battista De La Salle in Rome, reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, justice, and human dignity.
The Mass was presided over by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin who highlighted the historical significance of the relationship and called for stronger dialogue and cooperation in addressing the challenges facing the world today.
The milestone also coincided with the 65th anniversary of the Pontificio Collegio Filippino in Rome, an institution dedicated to supporting the formation and studies of Filipino priests and seminarians.
Cardinal Parolin: Dialogue is essential to peace
In his homily, Cardinal Parolin recalled that diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Holy See were formally established on April 8, 1951, during the pontificate of Pope Pius XII and the presidency of Elpidio Quirino.
He described the relationship as an indelible part of the shared history of the two sides, strengthened over the decades through mutual respect, religious ties, and diplomatic engagement.
Among the important milestones he highlighted were papal visits to the Philippines, visits by Philippine presidents to the Vatican, and the 2008 agreement concerning the cultural heritage of the Philippine Catholic Church.
Emphasizing the importance of diplomacy in a world marked by tensions and conflicts, Cardinal Parolin said, “In international relations, dialogue is an irreplaceable diplomatic tool for preventing conflicts and rebuilding bonds of trust.”
He urged both sides to continue strengthening their diplomatic ties and renewing their commitment to peace, justice, and the dignity of every human person.
“Whether we work in politics, diplomacy, culture, business, trade, or any other field, we are all called to be architects of peace and active builders of justice in today's world,” he said.
The cardinal also stressed the need to protect human dignity amid rapid technological development, warning that progress can benefit only a privileged few while leaving others behind.
“We must be the guardians of humanity, promoting the human dignity of all,” he emphasized.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, recalls that diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Holy See began on April 8, 1951, during his homily at a Mass held on the 75th anniversary of PH-Holy See diplomatic ties at the Santuario di San Giovanni Battista De La Salle in Rome on October 23, 2026. PIA GONZALEZ-ABUCAY
Church's growing Filipino leadership
In his remarks, Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla reflected on the 75-year diplomatic relationship, highlighting the Holy See's continued support for Filipino participation and leadership in the Catholic Church.
“Significant in the 75 years of relationship has been the sustained support extended by the Holy See to deepen and reinforce Filipino participation and leadership in the Church in the Philippines,” Lotilla said.
He noted that the Catholic Church in the Philippines has developed a strong identity and leadership, with Filipino clergy and religious serving communities both at home and around the world.
Today, the Filipino Catholic community continues to contribute significantly to the life of the universal Church, reflecting the country's longstanding Catholic tradition and its growing international presence.
Pontificio Collegio Filippino celebrates 65 years
Lotilla also highlighted the 65th anniversary of the founding of the Pontificio Collegio Filippino in Rome, which provides Filipino priests and seminarians with opportunities for further studies and formation.
“The second milestone we are celebrating tonight is the 65th anniversary of the founding of the Pontificio Collegio Filippino in Rome, established to facilitate the studies of Filipino priests and seminarians,” he said.
The institution has played an important role in supporting the formation of Filipino clergy and strengthening their contribution to the Catholic Church in the Philippines and beyond.
Commemorative stamp
A highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of a commemorative postage stamp marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the Philippines.
The unveiling was led by Cardinal Parolin and Archbishop Emilio Nappa, secretary general of the Governorate of Vatican City State, alongside Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro and Lotilla. The officials also signed the commemorative stamp to mark the occasion.
The stamp features St. Peter’s Basilica, an open shell containing a pearl symbolizing the Philippines as the “Pearl of the Orient Seas,” and the flags of both states. These elements reflect the shared Christian faith, enduring friendship, and longstanding cooperation between the two nations.
“This stamp, created by the Philatelic and Numismatic Office of the Vatican City State, celebrates the constant harmony, mutual enrichment, and shared purpose depicting this long friendship. It expresses in a single image our common Christian identity and the bonds of fraternity that unite us. It is a testament of a longstanding and solid tie of friendship and mutual cooperation,” said Archbishop Nappa.
Lazaro underscored the importance of faith in shaping the identity and values of the Filipino people.
“For the more than eighty-five million Filipino Catholics, our faith anchors our identity and values as Filipinos and collective nation. This commemorative stamp serves as a tangible symbol for the 75th anniversary of this establishment of diplomatic relations,” Lazaro said.
She noted that, like other postage stamps, the commemorative issue crosses borders, carries messages, and documents significant moments in history.
As nations navigate an increasingly complex world marked by technological advancements and uncertainties, Lazaro reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to peace, stability, and dialogue. She also emphasized the country’s continued cooperation with like-minded partners, including the Holy See, in addressing challenges that require collective action.
The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps from various embassies, Philippine ambassadors to Southern European countries, priests, religious sisters, and members of the Filipino community.
The celebration concluded with a diplomatic reception, bringing together guests to commemorate the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the Holy See and the Philippines. —KG, GMA News