Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, often dubbed the “Asian Francis” for his progressive vision, emerged as a leading contender to succeed Pope Francis as cardinals prepare to enter conclave on Wednesday, according to Reuters.
The 67-year-old’s potential election would mark a historic shift, signalling the Church’s commitment to Francis’ reforms and prioritising growth in Asia. Known for his approachability and frugal lifestyle Tagle has championed interfaith dialogue and poverty alleviation.
His tenure in the Philippines, where he oversaw a 2014 papal visit drawing 7 million worshippers, showcased his ability to galvanise masses. Yet his 2020 Vatican appointment drew anger from former President Rodrigo Duterte, who accused him of political meddling.
Despite broad appeal, Tagle’s candidacy faces questions over administrative oversight. In 2022, Pope Francis dissolved the leadership of Caritas Internationalis, a global Catholic charity under Tagle’s symbolic patronage, following bullying allegations.
Yet Tagle’s theological depth, honed under Pope Benedict XVI during his International Theological Commission tenure, reassures traditionalists.
At 67, Tagle’s relative youth contrasts with recent papacies, offering potential for a prolonged, dynamic tenure. His Asian heritage aligns with Church strategies to invigorate congregations in regions like Africa and Asia, where Catholicism is expanding amid secular declines in Europe.
