The Declaration of the Holy Rosary Parish in Angeles City as a Minor Basilica

One of the highlights of my travels this year was my visit to Angeles City on June 10, 2026, to witness the solemn declaration of the Holy Rosary Parish Church as a Minor Basilica. Since applications for churches seeking this distinction pass through the CBCP Secretariat, I had the privilege of following the process from the very beginning and, finally, being present for this historic celebration.

Many people are unaware of the lengthy process involved before a church is granted the title of Minor Basilica. The parish first submits an extensive application containing the church's history, liturgical life, pastoral activities, architectural significance, and many other supporting documents. An ocular inspection is then conducted by the Executive Secretary of the Episcopal Commission on Liturgy. Once the Commission issues a nihil obstat, the application is presented to the CBCP Permanent Council. If approved, the CBCP President endorses the petition, and the entire documentation is sent to the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments in Rome for its final decision. Only after receiving the approval from the Holy See is a date fixed for the official declaration.

This particular celebration was made even more meaningful because the first Rector of the Basilica, Fr. Manuel Sta. Maria, is a contemporary of mine from our seminary days at the University of Santo Tomas. It was heartwarming to see him receive yet another honor during the same celebration. Along with the declaration of the church as a Minor Basilica, he was installed as a Papal Chaplain and bestowed the honorary title of Monsignor.

The celebration drew a large gathering of bishops from different parts of the country. Among those present were Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, who had once served as parish priest of the parish, Cardinal Jose F. Advincula, and the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines. The church was overflowing with the faithful, with many more participating from outside, a fitting testament to the deep devotion of the people of Angeles.

Since it had been several years since my last visit, I took the opportunity to admire the church once again. I immediately noticed the improvements that had been made. The retablo behind the main altar had been beautifully enhanced, making the sanctuary even more striking. What especially caught my attention, however, were the Stations of the Cross. Unlike the usual sculpted stations found in many churches, these were exquisite oil paintings that added a unique artistic and devotional character to the basilica.

As I left the church that afternoon, I reflected on how fitting it was that this historic parish had received the title of Minor Basilica. Beyond its beautiful architecture and rich history, it continues to be a vibrant center of faith for generations of Catholics. I felt blessed to have witnessed this important milestone—not only as Secretary General of the CBCP who had seen the petition through its various stages, but also as a pilgrim grateful to be part of another memorable chapter in the life of the Church in the Philippines.

Minor Basilica and Parish of  Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary (Pisamban Maragul), Angeles City.

The Rector and Parish priest, Msgr. Manuel Sta. Maria was also invested as a Papal Chaplain during the celebration

Cardinal Ambo David was the homilist

A group picture of the bishops who attended the official declaration of the Holy Rosary Minor Basilica and Parish, Angeles City.

The Stations of the Cross in oil painting. 

For old pictures of the Most Holy Rosary Parish click here.