The Archdiocese of Manila was made a diocese by a papal bull with Domingo de Salazar being its first bishop.

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila (Latin: Archidioecesis Manilensis; Filipino: Arkidiyosesis ng Maynilà; Spanish: Arquidiócesis de Manila) stands as a pivotal ecclesiastical jurisdiction within the global Catholic Church. It is a metropolitan archdiocese of the Latin Church, the largest particular church within Catholicism, serving as a spiritual beacon in the heart of Metro Manila, Philippines. Its direct territorial purview encompasses the vibrant and historically significant cities of Manila, Makati, San Juan, Mandaluyong, and Pasay, pivotal centers of Filipino life and culture.

At the spiritual heart of the Archdiocese is its cathedral church, the venerable Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, more popularly known as the Manila Cathedral. This architectural and historical marvel is nestled within Intramuros, Manila's ancient walled city, a testament to the enduring Spanish colonial legacy. The Blessed Virgin Mary, revered globally under the profound title of the Immaculate Conception, holds a special place as the principal patroness of the Archdiocese, signifying a deep devotion to Mary's sinless conception from the very beginning of her existence, a core dogma of the Catholic faith.

Historical Foundation and Evolution of the Archdiocese

The Archdiocese of Manila holds the distinguished title of being the oldest diocese in the Philippines, a testament to its foundational role in the spread of Christianity in the archipelago. It was originally established as a simple diocese on February 6, 1579, during the early years of Spanish colonization, a crucial step in formalizing the Church's presence in the newly annexed territories of the Spanish Empire. Just 16 years later, on August 14, 1595, its importance was elevated when it was formally raised to the status of a metropolitan archdiocese. This elevation signified its leadership role over an ecclesiastical province, supervising other dioceses in the region.

Since its most recent significant territorial reorganization in 2003, a strategic move to decentralize and enhance pastoral care for the rapidly growing Catholic population, the Archdiocese of Manila serves as the metropolitan see for an ecclesiastical province bearing the same name. This province now includes several suffragan dioceses that were historically part of its vast territory, reflecting the dynamic growth and evolving needs of the Church. These include:

This structure allows for more focused spiritual guidance and administrative efficiency across a vast and densely populated region.

Broader Ecclesiastical Responsibilities and Managed Institutions

Beyond its direct territorial jurisdiction, the Archdiocese of Manila plays a significant role in the broader ecclesiastical landscape of the Philippines. It functions as the de facto overseer for the Military Ordinariate of the Philippines, a specialized diocese dedicated to serving the spiritual needs of personnel in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, and other uniformed services. Additionally, it provides oversight for the Apostolic Vicariates of Puerto Princesa and Taytay, both located in the sprawling province of Palawan. These entities are classified as "exempt dioceses" of the Holy See, meaning they report directly to the Vatican rather than through an intermediate archdiocese. Specifically, the apostolic vicariates fall under the jurisdiction of the Dicastery for Evangelization (formerly the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples), reflecting their missionary nature in territories where the Church structure is still developing.

The Archdiocese also demonstrates its commitment to education, spiritual formation, and media outreach through the ownership and management of several key institutions, some of which are located outside its immediate territorial boundaries:

Financial Stewardship and Current Leadership

The Archdiocese of Manila, legally operating under the name "Roman Catholic Archbishop of Manila," demonstrates a significant presence in the financial sector as a long-standing shareholder in the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI). As of December 31, 2020, its holdings included 327,904,251 shares, representing approximately 7.3 percent of the bank's equity. This substantial investment reflects a historical relationship and the Archdiocese's responsible financial stewardship, utilizing its assets to support its extensive pastoral and charitable works.

Since June 24, 2021, the metropolitan archdiocese has been under the spiritual leadership of its current metropolitan archbishop, Jose Cardinal Advincula. As the chief shepherd, he guides the clergy, religious, and faithful of the Archdiocese, ensuring the spiritual well-being and pastoral care of millions of Catholics.

The First Bishop: Domingo de Salazar

The rich history of the Archdiocese of Manila began with the foundational work of Domingo de Salazar (1512 – December 4, 1594). A prominent Catholic prelate, Bishop Salazar served as the very first Bishop of Manila from 1579 until his passing in 1594. His appointment was a crucial step by the Spanish Crown and the Holy See to establish the formal ecclesiastical structure in the newly integrated territories of the Spanish Empire, laying the groundwork for what would become the premier Catholic archdiocese in the Philippines.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila

What is the official name of the Archdiocese of Manila?
Its official full name is the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila. It is also known by its Latin (Archidioecesis Manilensis), Filipino (Arkidiyosesis ng Maynilà), and Spanish (Arquidiócesis de Manila) names.
Which areas are under the direct jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Manila?
The Archdiocese directly governs the cities of Manila, Makati, San Juan, Mandaluyong, and Pasay, all located within Metro Manila.
What is the significance of the Manila Cathedral?
The Manila Cathedral, officially the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, is the mother church of the Archdiocese. It is a minor basilica, a title bestowed by the Pope, recognizing its historical and spiritual importance. It serves as the seat of the Archbishop and is located in the historic walled city of Intramuros.
When was the Archdiocese of Manila established?
It was initially created as a diocese on February 6, 1579, and then elevated to a metropolitan archdiocese on August 14, 1595, making it the oldest diocese in the Philippines.
Who is the current Archbishop of Manila?
As of June 24, 2021, the metropolitan archdiocese is led by His Eminence, Jose Cardinal Advincula.