Sunday, January 21, 2024

Honoring Devotion: Fernando Zobel de Ayala Receives the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice



In a significant event, Ayala Corporation’s Fernando Zobel de Ayala has been honored with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice. This prestigious award represents the zenith of recognition by the Pope for laity committed to the Church’s mission. Fernando's nomination stemmed from his remarkable contributions, demonstrating his steadfast involvement in advancing Caritas Manila's work.


On a spiritually charged Wednesday, history was written within the hallowed walls of Manila Cathedral. Cardinal Jose Advincula conferred the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice upon Fernando Zobel de Ayala alongside Ramon del Rosario Jr., Manuel Pangilinan, and other venerable philanthropists. All recipients shared a common thread: unwavering support and palpable impact on Caritas Manila's endeavours.


Fernando Zobel de Ayala's alignment with Caritas Manila's mission reflects a trajectory of altruism. He and his fellow honorees have been pivotal in ensuring the success of numerous charitable programs. This recognition is a testament not merely to their generosity, but also to their vision of a more humanitarian society.


In a stirring homily, Cardinal Advincula expressed the Church's profound gratitude. He highlighted the awardees' "immense love for God," showcased through their dedicated service. The award was not just an emblem of gratitude but a token of partnership in the Church's enduring mission.


The crowning of Zobel with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice was twofold: a celebration of past endowments and an emboldening for the future. Cardinal Advincula galvanized the awardees to perpetuate their benevolent endeavors, furthering the influence of their good works.



Established in 1888 by Pope Leo XIII, the Cross of Honor was rooted in celebration and acknowledgment. Its contemporary status as the highest laity honor delineates a rich legacy, celebrating services to both the church and the papacy.



Fernando Zobel de Ayala's reception of the award is a powerful narrative of selflessness. It chronicles an influential business leader’s pivot towards serving the greater good, forwarding a precedence for societal contributions amongst industry stalwarts.


Recognition is merely a point in the journey for Zobel and his co-recipients. It marks a call to action, a challenge to enhance their humanitarian influence, and a model their corporate peers are encouraged to emulate.



The conferral of the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice is a focal point for the Church's expression of gratitude. It heralds the collective efforts of individuals in fortifying the Church's presence and philanthropic impact on society.


Fernando Zobel de Ayala's latest recognition sets the stage for amplified philanthropic activities. As public figures, the awardees are tasked with leveraging their influence for continual societal improvement, embodying the essence of the honor they have received.



While accolades celebrate achievements, they also beckon towards future endeavors. Fernando Zobel de Ayala and his fellow awardees face the prospect of not just meeting but exceeding the service standards they have established, driven by faith, dedication, and community spirit.


MANILA — Fernando Zobel de Ayala of Ayala Corporation has been bestowed with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, the highest papal honor for the laity, recognizing his exceptional contributions to Caritas Manila and the Church.

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