The Sacred Unveiling of a Covenant of Mercy

On a bright and hope-filled morning of July 18, 2025, a sacred milestone for the Catholic faithful in Davao was etched into the history of the Archdiocese. It was the official signing of the Master Development Plan for the Divine Mercy Shrine in the Island Garden City of Samal—a visionary endeavor of the Divine Mercy Apostolates of Davao in collaboration with the globally acclaimed Palafox Architecture Firm.

Titled A Covenant of Mercy, the ceremony took place at the Archbishop’s Residence in Davao City, bringing together the clergy, lay leaders, architects, devotees, and mission partners all united by one divine purpose: to build a national and international pilgrimage site where people can encounter the healing presence of God’s mercy. The mood was solemn yet spirited as participants witnessed what many believe is a prophetic act of faith marking a beginning of something greater than a structure, but a spiritual refuge for generations to come.

The envisioned Divine Mercy Shrine will rise on a 25-hectare property in Barangay Guilon, Samal Island. At its heart will stand a towering image of the Divine Mercy, a symbol of God’s endless compassion and love. The shrine aims to be more than just a physical place; it is designed to be a spiritual home for weary souls seeking peace, restoration, and hope. A sacred space of encounter with Christ.

The Apostolate’s commitment to this divine vision was deeply felt during the signing ceremony. The program began with an invocation meanwhile Lay Coordinator Joji Ilagan Bian welcomed guests with heartfelt joy, affirming that the shrine has long been a prayerful dream nurtured by the Apostolate and the faithful supporters. Architect Felino Palafox, known for integrating spirituality with sustainability, presented the Master Plan, promising a design that will reflect Filipino Christian values, environmental integrity, and theological symbolism. Additionally, it is the mission of the Apostolate to build this shrine to propagate the message of the Divine Mercy which is to save more souls.

Joji Ilagan Bian, Vivian Sison, and Lena Benedicto represented the Apostolate in formally signing the development contract together with the Archbishop, Msgr. Paul Cuison and Palafox Associates with hopeful applause. Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, D.D., gave his blessing and shared a special message, commending the Apostolate’s unwavering commitment and vision highlighting that the project is not only architectural but deeply pastoral and spiritual and that it is a gift to the Church and a call to holiness.

The Divine Mercy Apostolates of Davao emphasized that the shrine is not just for the few, but for the many, for every soul thirsting for mercy, healing, and deeper communion with God. It is their mission to make the shrine accessible to all pilgrims, regardless of background or status, fostering a culture of encounter and faith renewal.

In the spirit of communion and participation, the Apostolates invite the faithful to be co-builders of this mission—through prayers, support, and generosity. Inviting the faithful of Davao to help build this shrine together, brick by brick, prayer by prayer, with hearts full of mercy.

The event concluded with closing remarks and fellowship, as attendees shared snacks and conversations filled with hope. But the true feast was spiritual, with the joy of witnessing the dawn of a dream that now takes its first concrete steps.

As the Church in Davao journeys toward this sacred destination, the Divine Mercy Shrine stands as a beacon of faith and a future sanctuary for all who seek rest in the arms of Christ. The Covenant of Mercy has begun and the call is clear: Trust in Jesus, and help bring His mercy to the world. Jesus, King of Mercy, we trust in You!

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