The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) will send at least 1,500 delegates to the World Youth Day (WYD) 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal from Aug. 1 to 6.

“The reliable data is with the local organizing committee in Portugal. But our estimate is between 1,500 and 2,000 pilgrims are from the Philippines,” Fr. Jade Licuanan, executive secretary of the CBCP-Episcopal Commission on Youth (CBCP-ECY), said in an article posted at the CBCP news website on Wednesday.

Of the number, about 270 are part of the CBCP-ECY delegation to the 37th World Youth Day.

“A bulk of the Philippine delegation will be coming from different dioceses, religious congregations, and lay church organizations,” Licuanan added.

WYD participants are already in Portugal for the “Days in the Dioceses,” a preparatory event for the pilgrims and the host communities.

“Throughout these days, from July 26 to 31, the pilgrims will become acquainted with the host region, as well as the local Church,” he said.

According to local organizers, more than 67,000 local and international pilgrims from 126 countries will be attending the event.

Pope Francis is expected to participate in the event, which is held every three years in different countries. (PNA)