Historic first: Three Filipino cardinals to join papal conclave to elect new pope

Nine seen as contenders, including PH's Tagle

- BY MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, and ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ

The Philippines is poised to make history as three Filipino cardinals Luis Antonio Tagle, Jose Advincula, and Pablo Virgilio David-are expected to participate in the papal conclave to elect the next pope.

According to the Apostolic Constitution Universi Dominici Gregis, which governs the papal conclave, the "right to elect the Roman Pontiff belongs exclusively to the Cardinals of the Holy Roman Church, with the exception of those who have reached their eightieth birthday before the day of the Roman Pontiff's death or the day when the Apostolic See becomes vacant."

Filipino leadership in the Catholic Church

Following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, the Vatican's Sistine Chapel is expected to host over a hundred cardinals under the age of 80 for the secretive and sacred selection of the next leader of the Catholic Church.

The participation of three Filipino cardinals-a first for the Philippines-highlights the nation's deep-rooted Catholic heritage and its growing influence in global theology.

Meet the Filipino cardinals

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is the Pro-Prefect for the Section of First Evangelization of the Dicastery for Evangelization. He is widely respected for his theological expertise and leadership in global Church affairs.

Having served in prominent Vatican positions, Tagle has emerged as a notable contender for the papacy, standing out as the sole Asian among the "papabili" candidates.

Cardinal Jose Advincula, the Archbishop of Manila, is dedicated to social justice and pastoral outreach, fostering strong connections with marginalized communities.

Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, the Bishop of Kalookan, is a prominent advocate for human rights and social justice, reflecting the Church's commitment to addressing societal challenges.