Cardinal Tagle shares his thoughts on the recent papal conclave’s result, sends a few words for the new Pope

NEWS

Following the election of Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, along with Manila Archbishop Jose Advincula and Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, shared their thoughts on the recent papal conclave.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Manila Archbishop Jose Advincula, and Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David were filled with humility and awe during the recent papal conclave that resulted in the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. The three Filipino cardinals shared their reflections on the event in a press conference at the Pontificio Collegio Filippino in Rome on Friday, May 9, 2025.

Reflecting on his second conclave, Cardinal Tagle compared his experience with the 2013 conclave that led to the election of Pope Francis. He remarked, “Pangalawang conclave ko na ito,” and described his first experience of hearing the name of Jorge Mario Bergoglio announced as Pope Francis, noting how the crowd erupted in joy when the name “Francesco” was declared. He drew a parallel to the moment when Pope Leo XIV was elected, where the crowd cheered as they heard “Leol-despite the fact that Cardinal Prevost was not well-known at the time

Cardinal David’s “Joyful Surprise at the Election Result

The election of Cardinal Prevost as Pope Leo XIV came as a “joyful surprise to many, especially to those who had anticipated other candidates. Cardinal David explained that the papal election is deeply spiritual, with no predetermined candidates, as they had been guided by divine inspiration and prayer throughout the process.

He said, “Siguro yung nagulat [yung iba) ay dahil mayroong ini-expect kaagad, parang may kandidato o may manok.” He further emphasized that no one was specifically being campaigned for, and that the decision was left to God’s will. Cardinal David described the reaction as one of “Joyful surprise,” acknowledging that despite expectations, the choice of Pope Leo XIV was a blessing from God.

Cardinal Advincula: Guidance of the Holy Spirit

Cardinal Advincula, echoing Cardinal David’s sentiments, shared that their decision-making was rooted in prayer and discernment. “Bago kami mag-votation, we also went through a lot of prayer and discernment,” he said, emphasizing that it was not just their decision but one led by the Holy Spirit. With this guidance, the task of selecting the new pope felt lighter and more spiritually fulfilling.

Cardinal Tagle Expresses Gratitude for Papal Consideration

In a candid moment, Cardinal Tagle expressed his heartfelt gratitude for being considered a potential candidate for the papacy, though he admitted that he never imagined it would be a possibility for him. “Siguro po, una, maraming salamat sa mga yung parang nagtiwala at nagtiwala amin noon,” he said, acknowledging the trust people had in him despite his own surprise. “Ewan ko kung ano ang nakita niyo sa amin at inisip

niyo na puwede kaming posibleng maging Papa, noh?” he continued, clearly humbled by the experience.

Cardinal Tagle also reflected on the reactions of Filipinos, noting that the process was far from the typical election where candidates are selected based on popularity. He explained, “Sa katunayan, kung mababasa niyo po yung rule, kapag… bawat isa sa amin ay maglalagay na ng aming ballot paper, meron hong sinasabi kami na medyo nakakatakot nga, e.” He emphasized that the process was about trusting in God’s will and not about personal preferences.

A Call for New Leadership Models

Cardinal David also urged the Filipino people to embrace new models of leadership, inspired by the exemplary leadership of the past popes. “At sana din, parang mensahe ko rin nito sa mga tumatakbo o mga kumakandidato, although sa conclave walang kandidato kasi lahat kandidato, magkaroon tayo ng mga bagong modelo ng pamumuno, he said. He highlighted how the past popes have set an incredible example of humility and service, which should inspire political leaders to adopt similar values in their leadership.

Prayers and Support for Pope Leo XIV

Following the election, the three Filipino cardinals urged the faithful to offer continuous prayers for Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Advincula encouraged the Filipino community to give thanks to God for the gift of a new pope and to support Pope Leo XIV in his papacy. “Siguro ang may ipa-abot kong mensahe sa kapwa kong Pilipino ay yung magpapasalamat tayo sa Panginoon sa pagbigay sa atin sa kanyang handog na bagong Santo Papa in the person of Pope Leo XIV,” he said.

He also reminded the faithful of the great responsibility that comes with the papacy, calling for prayers for Pope Leo XIV as he embarks on his ministry. Cardinal Advincula stated, “Kailangang kailangan ng ating Santo Papa ang ating dasal at ang pag-offer natin para sa kanya, sa kanyang pastoral ministry.”

About Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle:

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the former Archbishop of Manila, is a highly respected figure in the Catholic Church, Known for his humility and

commitment to social justice, he has been a key leader in the Church, both in the Philippines and internationally. Tagle was one of the cardinals considered for the papacy in the most recent conclave, although he humbly stated that he never envisioned himself being chosen.

About Cardinal Jose Advincula:

Cardinal Jose Advincula is the current Archbishop of Manila and a leading figure in the Philippine Church. He was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope Francis in 2020 and has been an advocate for faith-based social work, including issues related to poverty and education.

About Bishop Pablo Virgilio David:

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David is the Bishop of Kalookan, known for his advocacy of human rights and his outspoken views on social issues. He has been a prominent leader in the Philippine Church, particularly in his efforts to address the challenges faced by the marginalized sectors of society.