Luis Antonio Tagle: Who is this Filipino Cardinal in the Pope race?

Manila: As the Catholic Church mourns the death of the Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday (April 21, 2025), attention now turns to the centuries-old "conclave" that will elect his successor. 

Among the frontrunners is Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle, 67, a.k.a. the “The Asian Francis”.

His parishioners affectionately call him "Chito". He is known to take “jeepneys” and public transport while priest, and eventually, bishop in the Philippines.  

Deep roots in Asia, educated in America, influence in Rome

Tagle, the 32nd Archbishop of Manila (2011 to 2020), is only the 7th Cardinal from the Philippines. He has deep roots in Asia.

He was educated in America (doctoral in theology), and has strong credentials in Rome. 

Fluent in multiple languages and a powerful speaker, the "papable" often speaks of a “Church of the poor for the poor,” echoing the themes central to Pope Francis’ pontificate. 

As Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples — often called the "Red Pope" for its historic power in missionary territories, Tagle plays a pivotal role in shaping Catholic outreach across the so-called "Global South".

He is also known for his advocacy for inclusivity.

Speaking during the World Youth Day 2016 in Krakow, Poland, ”Sometimes, you feel you’re in the wrong place. You don’t belong. And you ask: Should I be here? Maybe I should be replaced, with a better coin. Yes, lost sheep, lost coin. But if you’re lost, you would want to be found.” 

In Rome, his responsibilities included oversight of the Church’s mission in Africa, Latin America, and Asia — particularly in regions where the faith is growing but faces political or cultural constraints.

Should he be elected pope, he would make history as the first Asian — and the first cardinal of Chinese descent — to assume the papacy.

Who is he?

Born on June 21, 1957, in Manila, Philippines, Tagle grew up in a devout Catholic family. His father was Filipino, while his mother was of Chinese descent, tracing her lineage to southeastern China. 

His dual heritage, coupled with his pastoral approach and theological rigour, has long positioned him as a unique figure capable of bridging Eastern and Western worlds within the Church.

Asked to describe his reaction at being named Cardinal at age 55 (in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI), Tagle, then the Archbishop of Manila, said: 

"I don't even see myself as a Bishop!" 

Tagle’s early formation laid the foundation for his rise. After earning a licentiate in theology from the Loyola School of Theology in Quezon City, he went on to receive his doctorate in sacred theology from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where he specialised in ecclesiology and Vatican II. 

Known for his humility and eloquence, he soon became one of Asia’s most respected theological minds.

Timeline of key milestones

1982: Ordained a priest in the Diocese of Imus, Philippines.

1997–2002: Served on the Vatican’s International Theological Commission under then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.

2001: Appointed Bishop of Imus by Pope John Paul II.

2011: Elevated to Archbishop of Manila by Pope Benedict XVI.

2012: Created Cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI, one of the youngest in the College of Cardinals at the time.

2015: Appointed President of Caritas Internationalis, the Church’s global humanitarian arm.

2019: Named Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples by Pope Francis; President of Interdicasterial Commission for Consecrated Religious.

2022: Appointed Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation after Curial reforms, one of the Vatican's most influential positions.

Advocate for the Church in China

A key reason for Tagle’s rising profile within the Vatican is his deep engagement with the Church in China.

Given his Chinese ancestry, he has long been viewed as a vital bridge between Rome and Beijing, especially as diplomatic tensions and religious crackdowns complicate Catholicism's presence in the People’s Republic. 

His appointment in 2021 as a member of the Vatican team involved in delicate negotiations with Chinese authorities over bishop appointments signaled Rome’s trust in his cultural sensitivity and diplomatic tact.

Tagle’s approach to China has emphasised patience, dialogue, and the nurturing of local clergy. 

In public statements, he has consistently highlighted the resilience and fidelity of Chinese Catholics under pressure and advocated for pastoral accompaniment over political confrontation. 

His nuanced understanding of Chinese identity and Confucian values has positioned him as an empathetic voice in the Vatican’s evolving Asia strategy.

A global pastoral vision

Cardinal Tagle’s blend of theological intellect, personal warmth, and cross-cultural fluency has made him a beloved figure among both laity and clergy. 

His experience in Caritas Internationalis also demonstrated his commitment to social justice and humanitarian relief on a global scale.

Should the College of Cardinals elect him pope, Tagle would not only be the first Asian to lead the Catholic Church, but also the first to bring a distinctly East Asian sensibility to the papacy — at a time when Christianity is shifting demographically toward the South.

For many, Cardinal Tagle embodies a future Church that is more inclusive, compassionate, and globally engaged.

Education Timeline of Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle