Montemaria Shrine opens arms to pilgrims

As Filipino Catholics across the country begin their Maundy Thursday traditions, thousands are expected to participate in Visita Iglesia, the centuries-old custom of visiting seven churches as a form of pilgrimage and penance. Some devotees choose to pray at two Stations of the Cross per site, while others take on all 14 reflections on the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ across as many locations as they can as an undertaking both physical and deeply spiritual.

One destination stands out this year for its profound symbolism and architectural wonder: the Montemaria Shrine in Batangas City.

Rising from the coastal ridges of the barangay (village) communities of Pagkilatan and Mabacong, the Montemaria Shrine is home to the "Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace," a soaring monument that now holds the title of the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world.

Standing even taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York and Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, the shrine has become a popular stop for Visita Iglesia routes and personal pilgrimages alike since its completion.

Overlooking the tranquil Batangas Bay, the statue's design allows visitors to ascend into the Virgin Mary's hands and crown, offering a sweeping view of the waters below — an experience that often moves guests to quiet awe.

The Montemaria complex is more than just a towering landmark. It also houses the Sto. Niño Chapel, where masses and sacraments are regularly held. After exploring the Tower of Peace, the chapel provides another sacred space for prayer amid the influx of Holy Week visitors.

Originally conceptualized as a township project by AbaCore Capital Holdings Inc. (ABA), Montemaria continues to evolve under the company's stewardship and its joint-venture partner Fluvion Real Estate Development Inc. Last year's Holy Week saw some 100,000 pilgrims pass through its gates. Today, especially, the shrine is preparing to welcome double that number.

Several enhancements have been made within the compound to accommodate the anticipated crowds, including a modernized Stations of the Cross, expanded roads for better traffic flow, and an upgraded food and dining complex to serve families and pilgrims alike.

For many, Montemaria has become a reminder of how spiritual practices like Visita Iglesia remain deeply relevant. Though rooted in tradition brought by Spanish missionaries in the 16th century, the Filipino version of the Seven Churches Visitation has evolved into a personal journey for reflection, repentance, and gratitude.

"As we head towards the Holy Week, we invite the faithful to spend this solemn experience at the Montemaria Shrine — whether you are sight-seeing with your loved ones or visiting to practice your Catholic faith," said Guoan Wu, president of Fluvion.

From prayerful footsteps between churches to quiet moments before a towering image of the Virgin Mary, Holy Week continues to unfold as a time of personal renewal for Filipino Catholics. At Montemaria Shrine, faith — like the statue that watches over Batangas Bay — stands tall and unwavering.