The Vatican has officially elevated the Holy Rosary Parish (HRP) in Angeles City (AC), also known as Pisamban Maragul, to the rank of a Minor Basilica, making it the first church in Pampanga and the 30th in the Philippines to receive the title.

Rev. Fr. Manuel C. Sta. Maria, parish priest of HRP, together with the parish clergy received the decree of elevation (Prot. N 39/26) at the Apostolic Nunciature, February 10.

“This honor given to us is not only a testament to the Angeleños’ devotion to the Blessed Mother, but the Kapampangan’s faith as well,” Fr. Sta. Maria said in a post by The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Fernando, describing the elevation as a testament shared by the faithful of Angeles City with the entire province.

Pope Leo XIV granted the elevation through the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments after Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias, DD, of the Archdiocese of San Fernando, filed a petition supported by the prayers of the clergy and Kapampangan faithful.

The conferment was earlier announced during a morning Mass on February 7.

Meanwhile, HRP has yet to announce the date of the Solemn Declaration of the Minor Basilica, which will formally proclaim their status through a liturgical rite.

The title of Minor Basilica is granted to churches distinguished by active pastoral liturgy, historical and artistic significance, and sustained devotion among the faithful. 

Basilicas also carry responsibilities in promoting liturgical formation, sacred music, and celebrations that highlight communion with the Pope.