Pope Leo elevates Marikina Shrine into minor basilica

MANILA, Philippines — Pope Leo XIV has approved the elevation into a minor basilica of the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Paul of the Cross in Marikina.

The church is the first to receive the title under Pope Leo XIV’s papacy, according to CBCPNews.

Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Santos said the elevation was a “momentous blessing” and “sacred recognition” for the shrine and diocese.

Two minor basilicas are now in the diocese of Antipolo, with the other being the Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Taytay, which received the title in 2024.

Basilicas are granted the privilege of an “ombrellino” (a red and yellow cone-shaped canopy) and a “tintinnabulum” (a bell mounted on a pole that can be carried in processions).