PRAGUE – The world turned silent when the news broke about the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025. Born in Argentina, Pope Francis served as the Head of the Catholic Church and Sovereign of the Vatican City State from 2013 until his passing in 2025. Media outlets around the globe began reporting on the circumstances surrounding his death. According to official reports, he died from a cerebral stroke, which led to an irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.1
The question on everyone’s mind: Who will be the next Pope? Among the many worthy candidates, all eyes are on the Filipino Cardinal.
A Brief Biography
Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle, known by his nickname “Chito” was born June 21, 1957, is one of the most influential and respected figures in the global Catholic Church. He was the 32nd Archbishop of Manila from 2011 to 2020.
Since June 5, 2022, Cardinal Tagle has served as the Pro-Prefect for the Section of First Evangelization of the Dicastery for Evangelization. This dicastery, formerly known as the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, plays a central role in coordinating Catholic missionary work, particularly in areas where the Church is still growing or newly planted.
He is the eldest child of devout Catholic parents of Tagalog and Chinese Filipino heritage. His roots trace back to the Principalía, the Spanish-era Filipino aristocracy. Raised in Parañaque, he studied at Saint Andrew’s School before entering the Jesuit San José Seminary and earning his theology degrees at Ateneo de Manila University and later a doctorate at the Catholic University of America.
A gifted theologian and speaker, Tagle is fluent in English, Italian, and Tagalog, and proficient in several other languages. Known for his intellect and humility, he is one of the most respected voices in the global Catholic Church.
Priesthood and Mission
Ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Imus on February 27, 1982, Cardinal Tagle began his ministry as associate pastor at San Agustín Parish in Méndez-Núñez, Cavite (1982–1984). Early in his priesthood, he was deeply involved in seminary formation, serving as spiritual director (1982–1983) and later as rector (1983–1985) of the Diocesan Seminary of Imus.
Following advanced theological studies in the United States from 1985 to 1992, he returned to Imus where he served as Episcopal Vicar for Religious (1993–1995) and later as parish priest and rector of the Cathedral-Parish of Nuestra Señora del Pilar (1998–2001). He also contributed to theological education as a faculty member at San Carlos Seminary (1982–1985) and Divine Word Seminary in Tagaytay.
His theological expertise earned him a place on the International Theological Commission from 1997 to 2002, appointed by Pope John Paul II and under the leadership of then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. Additionally, from 1995 to 2001, he served on the editorial board of the “History of Vatican II” project, contributing to one of the most significant contemporary studies of the Council.
Tagle is known for his compassionate approach toward marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals. While upholding traditional Church teachings on issues like same-sex marriage, contraception, and abortion, he has condemned judgmental language and encouraged empathy and inclusion. For instance, he has criticized the harsh terminology historically used against LGBTQ+ people and urged youth to reject discrimination.2
Looking Forward
If Cardinal Tagle will be appointed as the new Pope, he will be the first Asian Pope in history. It will be a proud moment for all Filipinos who, majority are Christians. His ability to connect with people across cultures and his dedication to serving the poor and marginalized reflect the very heart of Christ’s teachings.
Should he be chosen, his papacy would not only mark a historic milestone for Asia and the Philippines, but also inspire a renewed spirit of unity and faith among Catholics worldwide. Cardinal Tagle is not only ready to lead, he is ready to heal, to guide, and to love as the Vicar of Christ.
Who do you think will be the next pope? Let us know in the comments!
REFERENCES:
- Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Pope Francis. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 23, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_Francis#Death ↩︎
- Mosendz, P. (2024, April 17). Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is a front-runner to be the next Pope. Them. https://www.them.us/story/cardinal-luis-antonio-tagle-pope-front-runner-catholic-church-francis-conclave ↩︎
