DIVINE Mercy Apostolates chair Joji Ilagan Bian, together with renowned architectural firm Palafox Associates and Archbishop Romulo Valles of the Archdiocese of Davao, formally signed the Master Development Plan for the future shrine of the Divine Mercy in the Island Garden of Samal.
The ceremonial signing, held at the Archbishop’s residence along Torres Street on July 18, 2025, marks the official beginning of a long-prayed for vision, which is the creation of a spiritual sanctuary where the faithful can experience the healing and hope of God’s infinite mercy.
The Divine Mercy Shrine will rise on a 25-hectare property owned by the Archdiocese of Davao, located in Barangay Guilon, Samal Island. At the heart of the development will stand a majestic statue of the Divine Mercy, envisioned to be the focal point of the entire shrine complex. The statue will be a symbol of faith, compassion, and divine presence, inviting pilgrims to “Trust in Jesus.”
Joji Ilagan-Bian, Chair of the Divine Mercy Apostolates, said: ”We are filled with deep Joy and gratitude as we take this sacred step. This shrine will not only be a place of devotion, but a refuge for the brokenhearted, a light for the weary, and a holy ground where people can encounter God’s merciful love.”
Leading the master planning is Palafox Associates, known for its visionary and faith-sensitive designs.
The Divine Mercy Shrine is envisioned to become a national and international pilgrimage site, a lasting legacy of the church in Davao, and a gift for future generations.
