Manila, March 27 -- Pope Francis has approved the elevation of the Sta. Cruz Parish Church in Manila to a minor basilica.

In a social media post Thursday, the Sta. Cruz Parish Church, also known as the "Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar," is now one of 25 churches in the country to receive the designation.

The honor, given to a place of worship, carries significant historical, architectural, or spiritual importance.

It also signifies that the church has a "closer relationship to the Pope," and has the right to display the papal symbol of crossed keys on its banners, furnishings, and seal.

The parish was established in 1619, with Jesuit priests ministering to the growing Chinese population in the area.

In 1643, a replica of the...