Filipina Philanthropist Honored with Vatican’s Highest Award for Distinguished Service to the Church

Renowned Filipina philanthropist Renena Benedicto “Nena” Prieto received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award—the highest papal honor bestowed on clergy and laity for outstanding service to the Church and the Holy See—on June 12, 2025.

The award was conferred during a Mass presided over by Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula at the Sanctuario de San Jose in Mandaluyong City.

The event coincided with the national observance of Philippine Independence Day and the liturgical celebration of the Feast of Jesus Christ, the Eternal High Priest.

In his homily, Cardinal Advincula praised Prieto’s unwavering generosity and dedication, noting how she has consistently supported the mission of the Church through silent yet impactful efforts.

“Today, we honor someone who has heard and answered that call in a beautiful and generous way: Mrs. Renena Benedicto Prieto, whom we fondly call ‘Nena.’ Through her work as a philanthropist and servant-leader, Nena has supported countless initiatives that uplift the poor, spread the faith, care for elderly priests, educate fellow Filipinos, and sustain the mission of the Church,” said the Cardinal.

He emphasized that the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice is not given for fame or fortune, but for a deep and enduring commitment to the Church—a path Prieto has faithfully walked through the years. “Nena’s commitment has beenconsistent, faithful, and deeply rooted in her Catholic faith, especially in her devotion to Mary, Ina Poonbato, patroness of Botolan, Zambales. She has not only shared her resources, but also her heart. She has stood by the Church not only in times of celebration, but also in moments of challenge,” he added.

Cardinal Advincula also highlighted how Prieto’s life reflects unity and patriotism rooted in faith. “Real service does not divide; it unites. Her works are a reminder that faith and patriotism are not opposites, but partners. To love the Church and to love the nation are not two loves. When we follow Jesus, our Eternal High Priest, we become bridges of communion between rich and poor, between Church and society, between heaven and earth.”

He encouraged the faithful to follow Prieto’s example, beginning with listening to God’s call, committing to serve the Church, and working toward national unity, which begins in families and communities.

Prieto joins a distinguished list of Filipino recipients of the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, including Servant of God Laureana Franco, Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ, actress Nova Villa, and former Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban.

The Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal, Latin for “For the Church and the Pope,” was established in 1888 by Pope Leo XIII on the occasion of his golden sacerdotal jubilee. It became a permanent papal honor in 1898, initially reserved for men, until its conferral was extended to women in 1993.