Saint Lorenzo Ruiz is the first Filipino saint and martyr of the Roman Catholic Church. Born in Manila to a Chinese father and a Filipino mother, he was raised in the Catholic faith and was deeply involved in parish life from a young age, serving as an altar boy and later working as a clerk and skilled calligrapher. He was a devoted member of the Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary and lived as a layman, husband, and father with his wife, Rosario.
In 1636, falsely accused of a crime, Lorenzo fled the Philippines with three Dominican priests who were traveling to Japan, where Christianity was severely persecuted. Upon their arrival, they were arrested, imprisoned, and subjected to brutal torture. Despite immense suffering, Saint Lorenzo steadfastly refused to renounce his faith, famously declaring that he would rather die than deny Christ. He was martyred on September 27, 1637.
Saint Lorenzo Ruiz was beatified by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1981 and canonized in 1987, becoming the first Filipino saint. His feast day is celebrated on September 28.

Lay Martyr: A married man and father, Saint Lorenzo is a powerful witness that holiness and martyrdom are possible in ordinary family life.
First Filipino Saint: He holds a special place in the Church as the first canonized saint from the Philippines.
Witness of Faith: Saint Lorenzo remained faithful to Christ under severe torture, choosing martyrdom rather than renouncing his faith.
Rosary Devotion: As a member of the Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary, his life reflects deep Marian devotion and prayer.
Patronage: He is honored as a patron of Filipino Catholics, overseas workers, and those falsely accused or persecuted for their faith.
Symbols: Saint Lorenzo is often depicted with a rosary, chains, or palm branch, symbols of prayer, imprisonment, and martyrdom.