The Philippines and the Holy See marked 75 years of diplomatic relations on October 23, 2026, reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, human dignity, and social justice.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro led the Philippine delegation during commemorative activities in Rome, Vatican City, highlighting cooperation on issues requiring collective action amid global challenges.
The celebration opened with a Eucharistic Mass officiated by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin at the Chiesa e Santuario di San Giovanni Battista de La Salle.
The Mass was attended by members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See, Philippine government officials, representatives of the Vatican Secretariat of State, and members of the Filipino clergy and laity. Brother Armin Luistro, head of the international De La Salle Brothers order based in Rome, also attended.
The Mass included a special intention for the continued strengthening of relations between the Philippines and the Holy See.
The commemoration continued with the unveiling of a commemorative stamp marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
In her remarks, Lazaro underscored the partnership between the two states in addressing concerns such as the protection of migrants, seafarers, and displaced persons. She also highlighted the importance of ensuring that technological advancements serve human dignity amid pressing global challenges.
The occasion also marked the 65th anniversary of the Pontificio Colegio Filippino, a Rome-based institution for the advanced studies and spiritual formation of Filipino Catholic priests. The institution was established in 1961 through an initiative of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.
The commemorative activities were organized by Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See Raphael Perpetuo M. Lotilla and the Philippine Embassy in the Vatican.