The new Pope could be Asian

Philippine Cardinal Tagle Emerges as a Favorite for the Papal Throne

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, who is called the "Asian Francis," has become one of the leading contenders for the papal throne, reports The New York Times. The Philippine cleric attracts attention with his commitment to helping the poor, active position on climate issues, and tolerant attitude toward the LGBT community, divorced couples, and single mothers.

Parishioners highly value the cardinal for his modesty and inspiring sermons. However, Tagle's reputation is not flawless – he is criticized for insufficient decisive measures in combating sexual abuse in the church, notes the publication.

Recently, the organization of priest victims "Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests" appealed to the Vatican demanding an investigation into Tagle's activities both in Asia and in other regions of his influence. The cardinal himself acknowledged that the suffering of victims deeply moves him, but insisted on using church mechanisms to restore justice, emphasizing the need to care for "lost" priests as well.

In the Philippines, Tagle was criticized for not taking a firm enough stance regarding former President Rodrigo Duterte's harsh anti-drug campaign, which claimed tens of thousands of lives. Although the cardinal called to "stop wasting human lives," he avoided directly criticizing the president. Colleagues believe that a more decisive position could have saved many lives.

Previously, Tagle headed the Catholic charity organization Caritas Internationalis, but in 2022, Pope Francis removed all leadership after identifying problems in management and work atmosphere. Despite criticism, many note the cardinal's desire to persuade rather than intimidate. Tagle himself, with characteristic modesty, says: "When I think of myself in this role, I laugh. I can't even handle my own life, how can I manage a worldwide community?"

Now the 67-year-old Cardinal Tagle is predicted to play an important role in shifting the center of Catholicism from Europe to Asia and Africa. He remains one of the most prominent non-European candidates among the "papabili," although he has repeatedly admitted that he never dreamed of becoming either a priest or a pope.