ROME – The three Filipino cardinals who took part in electing the new leader of the Catholic Church have called on the faithful to pray for Pope Leo XIV, voicing their optimism about the direction of his papacy.
Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula said the choice of the name “Leo” draws inspiration from Pope Leo XIII, known for championing social justice. “He’s mindful of the world around him,” said Advincula, highlighting the new pope’s expected focus not only on spiritual matters but also on pressing social concerns.
Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David echoed the sentiment, saying the Church has been blessed with devoted and hardworking popes. He emphasized that the faithful must support each other now under a new spiritual leader.
Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, currently serving in the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, said that papal visits to the Philippines often set the global standard. “The Philippines is the benchmark,” he said, recalling the historic crowds at past visits, including over six million during Pope Francis’ 2015 visit.
Tagle shared that Pope Leo XIV, previously known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, had visited the Philippines multiple times and holds fond memories of the country. “Let’s show him love and keep him in our prayers,” Tagle urged.
He also offered a personal note, describing Leo XIV as “very level-headed” and a man of deep discernment, not one to act on impulse. With a laugh, Tagle added that the new pope is known for his hearty, contagious laughter—“very human,” he said.
Cardinal David spoke about the pope’s role as “Pontifex Maximus,” the supreme bridge-builder, and suggested that Pope Leo XIV may continue Pope Francis’ mission of unity, compassion, and mercy—without merely replicating his style.
“This is going to be a good papacy,” David concluded.