Diocese of Laoag Opens Process for Sainthood of 13-Year-Old Niña Ruiz Abad

The Diocese of Laoag in the northern Philippines has taken a significant step towards potentially declaring a 13-year-old girl, Niña Ruiz Abad, a saint. Abad, who is described as having lived a prayerful life full of reverence, had the cause for her sainthood officially opened in a ceremony at the Cathedral of St. William on Divine Mercy Sunday.

Bishop Renato Mayugba of Laoag stated, “We are starting our investigation on the life of Niña to examine if indeed we can say that God deigned to bless her with sanctity.” This investigation will involve compiling her writings, gathering testimonies about her life and holiness, and other aspects of her character.

Although the process of sainthood is long and rigorous, Archbishop Marlo Peralta of Nueva Segovia emphasized that Abad is now being presented as a model of Christian living. Despite the uncertainty of when she may be beatified or canonized, Peralta highlighted Abad’s path of holiness and faithfulness.

Abad, who was diagnosed with a heart condition at a young age, displayed remarkable behaviors such as wearing a rosary, showing devotion to the Holy Trinity, and actively participating in prayer and church activities. Her motto “God first” became well-known among her peers, and she was admired for her acts of charity and kindness.

Following her passing in 1993, the documentation from the diocesan inquiry will be sent to the Vatican for further review. If Abad is deemed to have led a heroic life of Christian virtues, she may be bestowed with the title “venerable,” leading to the next steps of beatification and canonization.

Abad’s journey towards sainthood is a significant development in the Northern Luzon region, following in the footsteps of Bishop Alfredo Verzosa. As her story continues to unfold, the faithful are encouraged to seek her intercession and promote her cause in the hopes that she may one day be recognized as Saint Niña Ruiz-Abad.