Philip of Jesus was a 16th-century Franciscan missionary born in Mexico City. After initially leaving his religious order to pursue a mercantile career in the Philippines, he eventually rejoined the Franciscans in Manila. While traveling toward Mexico for ordination, a storm forced his ship to land in Japan. Due to political tensions and suspicions of military intent, he and several other religious figures were arrested and eventually executed in Nagasaki. He is recognized as the first Mexican saint and was part of the group known as the Twenty-six Martyrs of Japan.
Life and death
Born in 1572 to Spanish emigrants, Philip first joined the Reformed Franciscans before leaving for a secular life in the Philippines. He returned to the order in 1590. In 1596, while sailing toward Mexico, his vessel was intercepted by Japanese authorities. Following his arrest in Kyoto, Philip was marched to Nagasaki in early 1597, where he was killed by spears while tied to a cross on a mountain.
Veneration
The Catholic Church beatified Philip in 1627. He was later canonized in 1862 alongside his fellow martyrs. Because of his origins, he holds the distinction of being the first saint from Mexico. He is venerated as the patron saint of Mexico City.