Just weeks ago, many Filipinos around the world hoped to see Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle rise as the first Filipino Pope. The buzz was real. Social media lit up with prayers, speculations, and pride. But now that the smoke has cleared—literally—we welcome new Pope Leo XIV, the first American to lead the Catholic Church.
Born as Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston, Pope Leo XIV represents a historic shift. Not only is he the first pontiff from the United States, but he is also one of the rare non-European Popes. This signals a broader vision for the Church: more global, more inclusive, and more attuned to voices from the peripheries. Known for his humility and commitment to pastoral work, Pope Leo XIV has long focused on healing abuse victims and championing reforms within the clergy. His election brings both hope and serious expectations.
Tagle’s New Role in Albano
While the white smoke didn’t bring the news many of us dreamed of, Cardinal Tagle remains a towering figure in the global Church—and he’s just taken on a new mission.
On May 24, Pope Leo XIV appointed Cardinal Tagle as the new titular bishop of Albano, one of the historic suburbicarian dioceses around Rome. This may seem like a symbolic role on paper, but it’s deeply rooted in tradition and influence. The suburbicarian sees have long been connected to cardinal-bishops, a senior rank in the Church hierarchy.
Tagle, still Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, is effectively the Church’s “chief missionary” and continues to shape Catholic outreach around the world. His new title reinforces his position among the most trusted voices in the Vatican, even if the papacy slipped past him—this time.
The Filipino Heart Still Beats Strong in Rome
Cardinal Tagle’s humility and eloquence have made him beloved not only in the Philippines but among Catholics globally. In many ways, his global mission reflects the Church’s increasing openness to Asia and the developing world. He has long emphasized a “Church of the poor,” and his voice continues to influence Vatican policy and tone.
Even without the papal crown, Tagle’s work remains vital. His presence in Rome reminds us that Filipino Catholics are not only followers but also global leaders of faith.
Looking Ahead
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, all eyes are on how he will guide the Church through the complex challenges of our time—from war and migration to moral questions and internal reform. For Filipinos, there’s no shame in hope deferred. Cardinal Tagle may not be Pope today, but he stands where he’s needed most: in the heart of the Church, with the ear of the Holy Father.
And who knows? The next conclave is never too far away.
