Divine Master’s Shrine
Perched atop a hill in Aurelio, San Jose, Dinagat Islands, the Divine Master’s Shrine stands as a place of remembrance, devotion, and heritage. This magnificent mausoleum was built by members of the Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association (PBMA) in honor of their founder, Ruben Edera Ecleo Sr.
More than a structure, the shrine represents the enduring influence, teachings, and legacy of the Divine Master. Its elevated location reflects a sense of reverence and inspiration, offering visitors a meaningful place to reflect on his contributions and the values he shared with his followers.
The Divine Master’s Shrine continues to serve as a symbol of faith, unity, and the lasting impact of a leader whose vision remains deeply remembered by the PBMA community.
Ruben E. Ecleo Sr. was once called "The South’s Mysterious Superstar" by the WHO Magazine in (September 26 Issue) 1981, for being a charismatic leader, the undefeated mayor of Dinagat and the architect of Barangay San Jose in the municipality of Dinagat for making it as the “Most Outstanding Barangay of the Philippines” in 1980; a recognition given by the elite Rotary Club of Makati. San Jose was then home of his association, the PBMA. He was chosen as the “Most Outstanding Mayor of the Philippines” in 1985. The south mentioned here is Mindanao, being one of the three big groups of islands in the Philippine Archipelago. Mindanao is being tagged as the land of promised by some local writers and historians. This land is blessed with abundance of natural reasources, fertile soil, mineral reserves and the best climate in the world yet a dangerous place for many. It evokes contrasting images of bounty and want, of war and peace, of rapid development amid the increasing impoverishment of its people.