The Bicol region is preparing for a landmark spiritual occasion. The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has officially announced that the groundbreaking ceremony for the Naga Philippines Temple will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Elder Steven D. Shumway of the Philippines Area Presidency will preside at the event, marking the formal start of construction for this long-awaited house of the Lord.

A Growing Presence in the Philippines

The Naga temple, first announced in 2022, serves as a testament to the thriving faith of over 900,000 Latter-day Saints across the nation. It will become the third temple currently under construction in the country, joining the sites in Cagayan de Oro and Tacloban City.

This announcement comes during a year of unprecedented growth for the Church in the Philippines. With the dedication of the Alabang, Bacolod, and Davao temples earlier in 2026, there are now six operating houses of the Lord in the country, complementing those in Cebu City, Manila, and Urdaneta.

A Sanctuary for Families

While all are welcome to join Sunday worship services at local meetinghouses, the primary purpose of temples is to provide a sacred space for members to participate in ceremonies that unite families for eternity.

As President Dallin H. Oaks shared in October 2025, “The sealing powers of the priesthood… bring families together for eternity.” The upcoming temple in Naga will offer a beautiful, permanent sanctuary for members to experience these blessings, deepening their connection to heaven and to each other.

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