Church Leaders Meet with Naga Mayor Leni Robredo Ahead of Temple Groundbreaking

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Members of the Philippines Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints met with Naga City Mayor Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo on August 7, 2026, a day before the groundbreaking of the Naga Philippines Temple, discussing their shared commitment to community service, disaster response, and strengthening families.

The Church delegation included Elder Carlos G. Revillo Jr., Philippines Area President, and his wife, Sister Marie Revillo; Elder Steven D. Shumway, a counselor in the Philippines Area Presidency, and his wife, Sister Heidi Shumway; and local Church leaders.

During the visit, Mayor Robredo expressed appreciation for the Church's ongoing support in the region and its collaboration with local communities during times of calamity.

Mayor Robredo noted the Church's role in providing assistance during emergencies and recalled instances when Church facilities have served the community during difficult times.

"I remember Panganiban,” she related, referring to the Church meetinghouse at Panganiban Drive in Naga City, which served as an evacuation center during a calamity.

"We are impressed by how much we align," Elder Shumway said, noting the continuing collaboration between the Church and local government in disaster response and other community-focused efforts.

The discussion also included the Naga Philippines Temple, with Mayor Robredo and other guests attending its groundbreaking the following day. Church leaders also extended invitations to Mayor Robredo for future temple-related events, including the yearly Manila Philippines Temple lighting program and open house for the Salt Lake Temple in 2027.

“We would like to invite you next year, a big event,” Elder Revillo extended, with Elder Shumway noting that the “last time it was opened for everybody” was in 1893.

While speaking about the purpose of temples, Elder Shumway emphasized that while temples are recognizable landmarks, their greatest significance lies in helping individuals draw closer to Jesus Christ. “What is important is what we do inside,” he stressed, adding that a temple “connects us to Jesus Christ" while presenting a portrait of the Savior.

The meeting reflected the longstanding cooperation between the Church and local leaders in serving communities and caring for those in need. The Church has also collaborated with Mayor Robredo during her service as vice president of the Philippines, supporting various community and humanitarian initiatives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic period.