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The iconic EDSA Shrine, which stands as a symbol of the historic 1986 People Power Revolution, has officially been granted the prestigious status of a National Shrine. This recognition highlights the shrine’s profound significance, not only as a religious site but also as a pivotal landmark in the Philippines’ journey toward democracy and peace.
The Historical Significance of EDSA Shrine
The EDSA Shrine, formally known as the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, is nestled at the corner of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) and Ortigas Avenue in Quezon City. Its creation was inspired by the peaceful uprising that took place along these very streets in February 1986, when millions of Filipinos took to the streets to demand the ouster of the Marcos dictatorship. The bloodless revolution became a defining moment in the nation's history, a testament to the power of nonviolent protest and unity.
In the wake of the revolution, the Filipino people sought a way to commemorate the victory of peace over tyranny, and the idea of a shrine to honor the Virgin Mary took shape. The shrine’s dedication to Mary, Queen of Peace, came from the belief that it was her intercession that guided the people toward a peaceful resolution during those tumultuous days.
Designed by architect Francisco Mañosa, the shrine's neovernacular architectural style blends traditional Filipino elements with modern design, making it an instantly recognizable landmark. The structure houses significant religious artworks, including a bronze sculpture of the Virgin Mary by artist Virginia Ty-Navarro and stunning stained-glass ceilings by renowned sculptor Eduardo Castrillo.
A New Milestone: National Shrine Status
On January 25, 2025, the EDSA Shrine reached a new milestone when it was granted National Shrine status by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). This new title is a formal acknowledgment of the shrine's importance not just to the Archdiocese of Manila but to the entire nation.
Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, president of the CBCP, emphasized that the EDSA Shrine transcends local significance, acting as a national landmark that stands for the collective spirit of the Filipino people. This elevation affirms the shrine’s role in Philippine history as both a spiritual and national symbol.
Cultural and Religious Importance
The EDSA Shrine has never just been a place of worship; it is a living monument to the Filipino spirit of unity, resilience, and hope. Over the years, the shrine has served as the backdrop for significant historical events, including the 2001 People Power II revolution, which led to the ousting of then-President Joseph Estrada. It has also been a site for religious and cultural gatherings, emphasizing its ongoing role in the Filipino consciousness.
In 2019, the shrine's historical and architectural value was recognized when it was declared an Important Cultural Property by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). This designation underscores the shrine’s contribution to the nation’s cultural and historical heritage.
A Place for Reflection and Unity
Today, the EDSA Shrine continues to be a sanctuary for Filipinos from all walks of life. Visitors can come to reflect on the nation's rich history, participate in religious services, or simply take in the peaceful atmosphere that pervades the site. It is a place where both the religious and secular communities converge, united in their shared values of peace, freedom, and democracy.
The shrine also plays a crucial role in the nation's religious landscape, offering Masses and prayer services, particularly on significant dates in Philippine history, like the anniversary of the People Power Revolution. It has become a place where Filipinos gather to remember their shared past and reaffirm their commitment to upholding the values of freedom and justice.
The Shrine’s Enduring Legacy
The recent grant of National Shrine status serves as a reminder that the EDSA Shrine’s legacy is far from fading. Instead, it endures as a beacon of hope and peace. For many, the shrine symbolizes the triumph of the Filipino spirit over adversity, making it not only a place of pilgrimage but also a continuous source of national pride.
As the EDSA Shrine enters this new chapter in its history, it stands as an enduring testament to the power of unity, faith, and nonviolent resistance. It will continue to inspire future generations, reminding them of the sacrifices made during the People Power Revolution and the importance of preserving the freedoms that were so hard-won.
With its new status as a National Shrine, the EDSA Shrine’s place in the hearts of Filipinos is solidified—forever immortalized as a national treasure, a spiritual home, and a reminder of the Philippines’ capacity to rise above challenges in the pursuit of peace and justice.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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