Tondo Church declared minor basilica on May 11

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May 4, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Apostolic Nuncio Charles John Brown will preside over the eucharistic celebration for the declaration of the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of Santo Niño de Tondo as a minor basilica on May 11.

Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula will deliver the homily during the 2 p.m. mass.

Pope Leo XIV, through a papal decree dated Nov. 9, 2025, bestowed the title to the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of Santo Niño de Tondo.

A church is recognized as a minor basilica when it carries significant historical, architectural or spiritual importance.

“With thanksgiving and joy, we invite you to witness a historic event: the declaration of the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of Santo Niño de Tondo as a minor basilica,” church officials said on Facebook. 

The event will also be attended by concelebrating prelates and clergy, priests from the former visitas of Tondo Church and the faithful.

Those joining the celebration are encouraged to bring Santo Niño images during the mass.

Built in 1572, Tondo Church has been the home of the second oldest image of the Sto. Niño in the Philippines.