Philippine Teenager Niña Ruiz-Abad on the Path to Sainthood

The Catholic Church in the Philippines is celebrating the news that the sainthood cause of Filipino teenager Niña Ruiz-Abad has been officially approved to proceed. The Holy See has granted the “nihil obstat” to begin the process of beatification, and Niña will now be known as “Servant of God”.

Niña Ruiz-Abad, who passed away in 1993 at the young age of 14, lived a life of deep faith and devotion despite battling a serious heart condition. Born in Quezon City to a family of lawyers, she moved to Sarrat with her mother and sister and attended Mariano Marcos State University High School in Laoag.

Known for her strong devotion to the Eucharist, Niña spent her days distributing religious items and praying fervently. Despite her illness, she remained steadfast in her faith and was described as a “walking testimony of piety and religion” by those who knew her.

Bishop Renato Mayugba of Laoag, who is overseeing the diocesan phase of the beatification cause, highlighted Niña’s life of prayer, adoration, and intimate relationship with God. Her grave in Sarrat has become a place of pilgrimage, inspiring children and young people to live a life rooted in prayer.

The announcement of Niña Ruiz-Abad’s sainthood cause has brought great joy to the faithful in the Ilocos Norte region, where she is remembered for her unwavering faith and courage in the face of adversity. The diocesan inquiry into her reputation and sanctity will officially begin on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 7, in the Cathedral of Saint William of Laoag.

Niña’s story continues to touch the hearts of many, serving as an example of how faith can help overcome obstacles. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has expressed gratitude for her life and legacy, noting that she remains an inspiration to all who hear her story.