Declaration as a National Shrine of the Our Lady of Aranzazu in San Mateo, Rizal, Diocese of Antipolo

           On August 22, 2025, the Parish of Our Lady of Aranzazu in San Mateo, Rizal, Diocese of Antipolo, was officially declared as the National Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Aranzazu. The solemn celebration was presided over by His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization – Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches.

Joining him were Most Rev. Ruperto Santos, Bishop of Antipolo, together with Archbishop Marlo Peralta of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia (Vigan) and Bishop Eugenius Cañete of the Diocese of Gumaca.

The declaration followed the decision made during the 129th Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on January 25, 2025, where the shrine was approved to be elevated to national status. The historic occasion drew thousands of devotees from near and far, all gathered in joyful thanksgiving to honor the Blessed Virgin under her beloved title, Our Lady of Aranzazu.

 

The main altar of the Our Lady of Aranzazu

At the back of the altar is a veil that connects to the image of the Our Lady of Aranzazu that devotees could touch while paying their respects. 

Showing to the congregation the official decree of erection of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aranzazu after reading it. 

Bishop Stud Santos, the bishop of Antipolo and Fr. Rodrigo Eguia, Shrine Rector and Parish Priest accepting the official decree. 

The side altar

The side altar 

A formal picture after the celebration with the bishops present and the Shrine Rector