Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is being eyed as a strong contender to become the next pope following the death of Pope Francis. A Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) official on Tuesday said Tagle has what it takes to lead the global Church—but ultimately, the decision lies beyond human hands.
Fr. Francis Lucas, CBCP’s director for broadcast, said the possibility of Tagle’s election exists, though the final decision will be made through prayer, reflection, and the discernment of the Holy Spirit.
He noted that Cardinal Tagle is well-respected and could potentially win, but emphasized that divine guidance ultimately steers the papal election.
Conclave set to choose next pope
With Pope Francis’ death on Easter Monday at the age of 88 due to a stroke and irreversible heart failure, attention has now turned to the upcoming conclave. Cardinals under 80 years old will gather at the Vatican to elect the next pontiff in a process steeped in centuries-old tradition.
Lucas explained that when the cardinals convene, they will engage in discussions to assess the traits needed in the next pope, based on the world’s current challenges. However, once the conclave begins, all campaigning and external communication will cease. The electors will then vote in secrecy until a new leader of the Catholic Church is chosen.
He emphasized that the gathering is not political in nature, but rather a spiritual process aimed at selecting the right person to guide the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.
Tagle’s reputation as the ‘Asian Francis’
Cardinal Tagle, the former Manila archbishop and current prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, has long been seen as one of the Church’s most charismatic leaders. Known for his pastoral style and deep concern for social justice, he is often referred to as the “Asian Francis” due to his similar values and leadership style.
If chosen, he would become the first pope from Asia—a historic shift in the Church’s direction. Tagle recently led a prayer service at St. Peter’s Square while Pope Francis was hospitalized, further amplifying speculation about his role in the Church’s future.
Reuters reported that Tagle’s global appeal, humility, and alignment with Francis’ vision position him as a serious candidate.
Remembering Pope Francis’ legacy
Lucas also recalled the legacy of Pope Francis, praising him for being close to the people, courageous, and simple. He admired the late pontiff’s decision to discard certain Vatican traditions, including the red papal shoes, which Francis replaced with his own black ones.
He especially remembered the pope’s 2015 visit to Tacloban City in Leyte, which brought comfort to thousands affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. Pope Francis, he said, inspired clergy to live among the people and serve with compassion.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.