4 October 2026, at Malate Church in Manila (Philippines), priests held the traditional blessing of animals in honor of the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi — the patron saint of animals and ecology. Hundreds of owners brought dogs, cats, and even a snail to the church to receive holy water and free rabies vaccinations.
Parishioners lined up and walked down the central aisle with their pets in their arms or on leashes. The priests sprinkled the animals with holy water, and in the church parking lot, veterinarians vaccinated dogs and cats free of charge. According to parish priest Father Leonito Distor, this tradition is closely tied to the teachings of Saint Francis, who called for respecting and caring for all of God's creation.
Among the participants was 32-year-old nurse Gaudin Supnet, who brought four shih tzus. "They are part of our family," she said. "Even though they cannot speak, they have emotions. I want them to feel our gratitude for their presence in our lives."
Similar ceremonies take place in many Catholic parishes in the Philippines and other countries on the feast day of Saint Francis or on the nearest Sunday. This year in Malate, as in previous years, the emphasis was placed not only on the spiritual side but also on practical help for animals — free vaccinations.
Owners note that such events strengthen the bond between humans and their pets and serve as a reminder of the need for responsible treatment of animals. Malate Church has been actively promoting this tradition for several years, combining the blessing with educational work on animal protection.
