By Dan Robin Santos

Published on July 9, 2024

TAYTAY, RIZAL, PHILIPPINES – The St. John the Baptist Parish in Taytay, Rizal has been officially declared to its status as the first Minor Basilica in the Diocese of Antipolo on July 9.

In a solemn mass presided over by His Eminence, Archbishop Jose F. Cardinal Advincula, the Archbishop of Manila, expressed his profound gladness over the elevation of the parish.

The solemn declaration was attended by the most reverend bishops of the Philippines and the Clergy of Antipolo.

The Minor Basilica and Parish of John the Baptist, recently became the diocese’s first minor basilica at the age of 41, marking it as another divine blessing.

The Vatican’s decision was followed shortly after the International Shrine of Our Lady of Good Voyage in Antipolo City received its declaration on January 26.

Bishop Ruperto Santos expressed gratitude, stating, “ Truly, this elevation to Minor Basilica of the Parish Church of Saint John the Baptist is grace upon grace for us in the Diocese of Antipolo.”

The title of minor basilica is conferred upon churches worldwide in recognition of their historical or cultural significance, architectural beauty, and importance within the Church’s life.

It also signifies a closer tie with the pope, whereas the title of major basilica is reserved exclusively for certain churches in Rome.

Historically, the church was initially built by Franciscan missionaries near Laguna Bay in 1579 with lightweight materials. Due to frequent flooding, it was relocated to its current location in 1591, becoming the first stone church outside Manila.

The present larger stone church was reconstructed in 1630, later undergoing repairs in 1768 and 1864 following typhoon damage and during the Filipino-American War in 1899, when it suffered fire damage.

In response to the area’s growing population in the early 1970s, the church underwent significant expansion.

Today, it is overseen by Fr. Pedrito Noel Rabonza III as parish priest, assisted by Fr. Francis Edward Baasis and Fr. Aladin Alisbo Jr as parochial vicars.