Security plans firmed up for Manaoag Church’s proclamation as basilica

Security plans have been firmed up for the upcoming proclamation of the Manaoag Church in Pangasinan as a basilica on Feb. 17, Tuesday.

Thousands of devotees are expected to attend the event along with 300 Catholic Church officials, GMA Dagupan's Hazel Cawaing reported.


^{Manaoag Church}

Two large screens have been set up in front of the church for those who cannot be accommodated inside.

Among the VIPs expected at the event are three cardinals, 50 to 60 archbishops, and 250 priests.

Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle is expected to read the proclamation decree from Rome.

Last October, Pope Francis said the proclamation would be done Feb. 17. The event will involve solemn rites, including a procession in front of the municipal hall.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines news site said the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag is also a parish church of the Archdiocese of Lingayen Dagupan.

It added the shrine is an affiliate of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.

"The devotion to Our Lady of Manaoag has helped deepen the piety of many Catholics not only in Pangasinan but throughout the country," it said.

The Catholic Education Resources Center says the Pope grants the title "Minor Basilica" to a church that has "unusual historical significance" or is "especially sacred because of the presence of a relic or relics."

CatholicCulture.org added the standard privileges granted to minor basilicas include: