Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle may become the next pope, according to a Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) official, but the decision rests on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
CBCP Vice President Bishop Pablo Virgilio David gave the statement in an interview published by GMA News.
He said Cardinal Tagle holds the qualities needed to lead the Catholic Church, but no one can claim the papacy by ambition.
“It’s not something you campaign for,” Bishop David said, explaining that the position results from prayer, reflection, and the Holy Spirit’s discernment during a conclave.
Tagle currently leads as Pro-Prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, a powerful role under the Roman Curia.
He previously served as Archbishop of Manila before receiving assignments in the Vatican from Pope Francis.
The statement came amid growing speculation over potential successors to Pope Francis.
While there is no official confirmation of a conclave, discussions have emerged due to the pope’s advanced age and health issues.
Bishop David noted that Tagle often appears in conversations about future popes due to his strong pastoral work, theological background, and international presence.
The story surfaced in the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country, on April 21, 2025.
Tagle, one of the few Asian cardinals in key Vatican positions, continues to fulfill his duties quietly, without addressing papal rumors.
Though Tagle’s name surfaces globally, only the cardinals and their collective discernment under the Holy Spirit can determine the next leader of the Church.
The next pope is chosen by the College of Cardinals during a papal conclave, where they pray for guidance and vote. The decision is based on spiritual discernment, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit plays a key role in the selection process.
Cardinal Tagle has not publicly expressed any personal ambition to become pope. Like many high-ranking cardinals, his focus remains on fulfilling his responsibilities within the Church.
When the papacy becomes vacant, the cardinals convene in a conclave to vote for the new pope. A candidate must secure a two-thirds majority to be elected. The process is guided by prayer and the belief that the Holy Spirit will direct the decision.
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