A historic moment unfolded on June 10, 2026, as the Holy Rosary Parish in Angeles City, affectionately known as Pisamban Maragul (Big Church), was formally proclaimed a minor basilica in a solemn Mass led by Cardinal Pablo Virgilio "Ambo" David. The elevation, granted by Pope Leo XIV in January 2026, makes it the first minor basilica in the Archdiocese of San Fernando and the 30th in the Philippines.
The ceremony was attended by Archbishop Charles Brown, apostolic nuncio to the Philippines; San Fernando Archbishop Florentino Lavarias, who presided over the Mass; Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula; and over 200 bishops, priests, and clergy from across the country . Thousands of faithful gathered to witness the historic occasion, joined by local officials including Congressman Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin Jr. and Mayor Carmelo "Jon" Lazatin II.
'The True Basilica Is the People': Cardinal David's Powerful Message
During his homily, Cardinal David, who served as parish priest of Holy Rosary Parish from 2007 to 2015, delivered a profound message about the meaning of the basilica title. "That's why a basilica is more than a building. The true basilica is the community. The true basilica is the people. The true basilica is the household of God that gathers constantly around the Eucharistic table," David said.
He noted that the church has endured nearly two centuries of challenges — earthquakes, wars, fires, typhoons, volcanic eruptions, political upheavals, and economic crises. "Again and again, this church has been damaged. Again and again it has been restored," David said. "Why? Because it was built on rock" — not just masonry and architecture, but "the rock of faith that lives in the hearts of generations of Angeleños" . Cardinal David expressed hope that the Shrine of Apu Mamacalulu may one day be elevated from a diocesan shrine into a national shrine of the Merciful Lord.
A Church Rich in History and Ceremonial Privileges
Founded on December 8, 1829, the present stone church was built between 1877 and 1896 and has witnessed key moments in Philippine history, including the Philippine-American War and World War II . The church is recognized as an Important Cultural Property and features Gothic Revival and Romanesque architecture, twin bell towers, and intricate stonework . Archbishop Brown explained that the basilica's new status reflects its close spiritual bond with the pope, with the basilica symbols representing "that shadow of healing, strength and protection" flowing from the ministry of the pope.
As a minor basilica, the church now enjoys special ceremonial privileges, including the right to display the Papal symbol of crossed keys, use the conopaeum (yellow-red ceremonial umbrella) and tintinnabulum (bell) in processions, and grant plenary indulgences to visitors. The rector may also wear a special black mozzetta with red piping . Angeles City Mayor Jon Lazatin described the designation as a "shared honor for all Angeleños," noting that Pisamban Maragul has remained a symbol of strength through wars, earthquakes, the Pinatubo eruption, and the pandemic . This landmark status elevates Angeles City as a pilgrimage destination, boosting religious tourism in Pampanga and attracting both devotees and travelers to explore the historic Rosario District and nearby heritage sites like Pamintuan Mansion.
