EDSA Shrine to bless politicians, government workers

MANILA, Philippines — For its Jubilee Year in 2025, the EDSA Shrine will open its doors to politicians and other government workers, giving them a plenary indulgence if they attend the celebration on Jan. 5.

In an announcement on its Facebook page, the church management said the shrine ­– which is also referred to as the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA – was chosen as one of the Jubilee churches in the Archdiocese of Manila.

The shrine is especially “dedicated for the Armed Forces, Philippine National Police, security personnel, politicians and government employees” during the Jubilee celebration.

“As a Jubilee church, it was granted the privilege of granting plenary indulgence to the above-mentioned sectors if they visit and participate in the liturgical activities of the shrine,” the post reads, referring to the Jan. 5 opening of the shrine to mark the 2025 Jubilee Year and the Mass that follows at 12 noon.

Pope Francis declared the start of the 2025 Jubilee Year, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” by opening the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City on Christmas Eve.

The church at the corner of EDSA and Ortigas Avenue was opened on Dec. 8, 1989, more than three years after the people power revolt in 1986 during which massive throngs of people and uniformed personnel gathered to oust dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and install Corazon Aquino as president.