Pope Francis has elevated the National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians in Parañaque City to the status of a minor basilica, which makes it the first minor basilica in the 22-year-old Diocese of Parañaque.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) confirmed the news on March 27, citing the Diocese of Parañaque’s statement.

“Receiving this honor is truly a grace from God and a profound blessing for our national shrine and parish,” the diocese said.

According to Vatican News, minor basilicas are distinguished by their special connection to the pope and the Church of Rome, symbolizing the universality of the Church.

With this designation, the shrine will be granted privileges such as the use of an “ombrellino,” a red and yellow, cone-shaped canopy, and a “tintinnabulum,” a bell mounted on a pole for processions. 

The basilica may also use the crossed “papal keys” on banners and signs.

The National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians is also home to a century-old image of Mary, Help of Christians, which was canonically crowned in 2022. 

The parish said the title of the basilica is an invitation to deepen its role as “a center of liturgical and pastoral life” for the faithful.