Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, often referred to as the “Asian Francis,” is a prominent figure in the Roman Catholic Church and a leading contender for the papacy. Born into a working-class family near Manila, Tagle, 67, has become a charismatic and beloved figure among the Philippines’ more than 90 million Catholics, embodying the values of humility and compassion that characterize Pope Francis. His commitment to the poor, migrants, and marginalized communities aligns closely with the papacy’s priorities under Francis.
Ordained as a priest in 1982, Tagle became the Archbishop of Manila in 2011, a significant position in one of Asia’s most influential dioceses. He was elevated to cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012, and his global reputation has only grown since. Known for his missionary spirit and pastoral care, Tagle’s approach to the faith is deeply personal and approachable. He often engages with the faithful, inviting people from all walks of life to share meals with him and emphasizing the importance of listening to and supporting those on the margins.
His work in the Vatican has also cemented his position as a key leader in the Church. In 2019, Pope Francis appointed him as head of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, where he oversaw the Church’s outreach efforts to new and growing dioceses. His subsequent appointment as “pro-prefect” in 2022 highlighted his role in expanding the Church’s missionary efforts and managing new ecclesiastical structures.
However, Tagle is not without controversy. He has been outspoken on issues like the Philippine government’s war on drugs, denouncing the violence and advocating for a more humane approach to governance. He also addressed the Church’s failure to properly respond to the sexual abuse crisis, urging a more transparent and compassionate approach. Despite these challenges, his critics argue that he has not done enough to address some of these issues within the Philippines.
Despite his humility, Tagle is regarded as a major figure in the Church. He often expresses surprise at his own rise to such positions, once stating, “If I were God, I would not choose me to be a bishop or a cardinal.” His deep faith and dedication to service make him a potential successor to Pope Francis, with many in the Church recognizing him as a papal candidate who can continue advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate Church.
