Why many Catholics support Cardinal Tagle as the next pope

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle and Pope Francis | Photo from CBCP

VATICAN CITY — As the Catholic Church prepares for the upcoming conclave, much attention is focused on a prominent contender to be pope: Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines.

While humility and reverence characterize this sacred moment, many in the global Catholic community, especially Filipinos worldwide, are hopeful Cardinal Tagle would be chosen to succeed Pope Francis.

On May 5, the eleventh Congregation of Cardinals convened, beginning with prayer. According to a Vatican press release, out of the 170 cardinals present, 132 are eligible electors, highlighting the significance of this process. Discussions reportedly addressed key issues such as ethnic diversity, recognizing migrants as a gift, supporting their faith amid mobility and confronting global conflicts.

The cardinals reaffirmed their commitment to the Synod on Synodality – a Church built on listening, participation and discernment. Supporting the next pope entails praying for a shepherd who fosters dialogue and builds bridges across cultures and religions. They also acknowledged the challenge of the spread of sects worldwide.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle and Pope Francis | FILE PHOTO

Additionally, officials and staff of the conclave took their solemn oath in the Papal Chapel, underscoring the gravity of this historic moment. 

This year’s conclave holds particular significance for the Filipino Catholic community. 

According to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), 2025 marks the first time in history that three Filipino cardinals – Tagle, Jose Advincula, and Pablo Virgilio David – will serve as electors in a papal election. 

Previously, Filipino participation was limited to one or two cardinals at most, making this a milestone that reflects the Philippines’ growing influence within the universal Church.

CBCP News also highlights a broader shift in the makeup of the College of Cardinals. Asians now comprise approximately 17 percent of the cardinal electors outnumbering North Americans, while European cardinals have decreased to about 39 percent. This change aligns with Pope Francis’ vision of greater global representation within the College.

Born in Manila in 1957 to a Filipino Chinese family, Tagle’s faith journey is inspiring. Ordained in 1982, he quickly gained recognition as a charismatic preacher and scholar. He studied at the Catholic University of America and served in various roles, including parish priest, seminary director and lecturer.

In 2001, he was appointed Bishop of Imus, and in 2011, he became Archbishop of Manila – leading one of the world’s largest Catholic communities. Pope Benedict XVI made him a cardinal in 2012.

Under Pope Francis, he led Caritas Internationalis and now heads the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, overseeing global missionary efforts.

Many refer to him as the “Asian Francis” for his humility, warmth and pastoral approach. He connects deeply with the poor, youth and diverse cultures. His advocacy for social justice and global leadership make him a compelling candidate.

For Filipinos and many others, he embodies compassion, humility and unity – qualities vital for leading the Church.

His potential election as the first Asian pope would be historic, symbolizing the Church’s universality.

Meanwhile, some Vatican observers have raised questions about his administrative record, particularly during his tenure at Caritas Internationalis. The next pope will face enormous challenges: maintaining unity, addressing abuse scandals and navigating internal tensions.

Across Filipino communities worldwide, especially in the US, there is a heartfelt outpouring of prayers – not as a campaign, but as a faith-filled hope.

As some say, “Rooting for Cardinal Tagle isn’t about nationalism. It’s about seeing ourselves, our struggles, spirituality and hopes, reflected in the heart of the Church.” This hope underscores a universal desire for a leader who embodies faith and compassion.

Let the conclave proceed in silence. But let the faithful’s hope never be silenced.