Filipino Cardinal Tagle among top candidates, or 'papabili', to succeed Pope Francis

BY ART SAMANIEGO

Apr 21, 2025 10:19 PM

  

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There's an old saying in the Vatican: "He who enters the conclave as pope, leaves as a cardinal." It's a reminder of the unpredictable nature of papal elections. 

While media outlets and Vatican watchers may list papabili, or those seen as likely successors, history has shown that the College of Cardinals often chooses someone unexpected—guided by the Spirit more than by speculation.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Manila Bulletin file photo)

Cardinals like Luis Antonio Tagle are frequently mentioned due to their visibility, influence, or alignment with Pope Francis's vision. But these lists are just educated guesses. The true outcome of a conclave is shaped behind closed doors—through prayer, reflection, and quiet deliberation—not headlines or betting odds.

In the end, the next pope may very well be someone whose name isn’t on any shortlist—until the moment the white smoke rises.

With the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church is preparing for a conclave to elect his successor. Among the cardinals considered strong contenders, or papabili, are:​

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
Aged 67, Cardinal Tagle is a prominent figure in the Church, known for his compassionate approach and alignment with Pope Francis’s progressive vision. He has served as the former Archbishop of Manila and Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples. If elected, he would become the first Asian pope, reflecting the Church’s growth in Asia. ​

Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
At 70, Cardinal Parolin serves as the Vatican’s Secretary of State, effectively acting as the Holy See’s chief diplomat. He is considered a moderate and a continuity candidate, having played key roles in diplomatic relations, including the Vatican-China agreement. 

Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
Cardinal Turkson, 76, has been a significant voice on social justice and environmental issues within the Church. He previously led the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. His election would mark the first African pope in modern times.

Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary)
Aged 72, Cardinal Erdő is the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest and a respected canon law scholar. He is viewed as a conservative candidate who could appeal to those seeking a return to traditional values. ​

Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)
At 68, Cardinal Grech serves as the Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops. He has been instrumental in promoting synodality and inclusivity within the Church, aligning with Pope Francis’s vision. ​

The upcoming conclave will convene 138 eligible cardinals, many of whom were appointed by Pope Francis—potentially influencing the direction of the Church’s future leadership.

Here’s a look at some of the most talked-about papabili—those considered likely to become pope—who were not elected in the past three papal conclaves (1978, 2005, 2013):

2013 Conclave (Pope Francis elected) 

Cardinal Angelo Scola (Italy): Then Archbishop of Milan, considered a front-runner. Seen as a bridge between conservative and reformist camps.

Cardinal Odilo Pedro Scherer (Brazil): Archbishop of São Paulo. His candidacy represented the growing Church in Latin America.

Cardinal Marc Ouellet (Canada): Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops. A theologically conservative candidate with strong Vatican experience.

Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana): Known for social justice and environmental advocacy. His potential papacy would have made history as the first African pope in modern times.

2005 Conclave (Pope Benedict XVI elected)

Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Argentina): The future Pope Francis reportedly came in second place. Known for his humility and pastoral style.

Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini (Italy): Jesuit and biblical scholar, popular among progressive circles. His health issues weakened his chances.

Cardinal Dionigi Tettamanzi (Italy): Archbishop of Milan and a strong voice on social issues.

Cardinal Francis Arinze (Nigeria): A top contender from Africa, known for liturgical expertise and interfaith dialogue.

October 1978 Conclave (Pope John Paul II elected)

Cardinal Giuseppe Siri (Italy): A staunch conservative, rumored to have been a leading candidate in multiple conclaves.

Cardinal Giovanni Benelli (Italy): A top contender in 1978. Seen as a pragmatic and capable administrator with strong Vatican ties.

Cardinal Sebastiano Baggio (Italy): Head of the Congregation for Bishops, but was not widely loved by his peers.

Cardinal Franz König (Austria): Progressive and ecumenically minded, helped build support for Karol Wojtyła (John Paul II) during the election.

In each case, the conclave defied expectations—reminding us once again that the Holy Spirit doesn’t follow the odds.

𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐨 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 10 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐬

 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐨 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 10 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐬

The City Government of Davao finalizes the contract to procure ten (10) units of 12-meter low floor buses as part of its commitment to improving the city’s public transport landscape.

The buses are low-floor city buses designed for convenient passenger use, with modern amenities, offering seating for approximately 40 passengers along with provisions for standing commuters.

On Monday, April 21, following the regular procurement processes, a ceremonial contract signing for the DC Bus Interim Bus Service or DC Bus was held between the City Government of Davao and the winning bidder, AutoKID Truck Solutions for 10 Yutong ZK6126HG buses.

“With the purchase of these new buses by our city, we aim to provide an interim measure to the public transport challenges that we have,” Atty. Tristan Dwight Domingo, Project Manager of the Davao Bus Project said.

Domingo said that as early as 2023, amidst the delays happening with the bigger transport project, which is the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project, also known as the Davao Bus Project, Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte had tasked them with exploring the expansion and institutionalization of the city’s longstanding Peak Hours Augmentation Bus Service (PHABS).

“Following this directive and backed by the wealth of data and insights coming from the PHABS operation, it became evident that there is a need for additional dedicated buses for the public.”

He added that the data they had also proved to be helpful in identifying the routes and level of service in the operation of the dedicated buses.

“Once we had the data and information we needed, the city then proceeded to allot the much needed funds for the 10 new buses procured as well as the necessary amenities required for its efficient operation and maintenance.”

The buses procured by the city are expected to arrive by September, and operations are eyed to start by the fourth quarter of this year.

The DC Bus will initially be free for Dabawenyo commuters. CIO

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Sue Ramirez on relationship with Dominic Roque: 'Ang saya lang, walang pressure'

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Apr 21, 2025 07:30 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• During the press conference for her upcoming film "In Between" with Diego Loyzaga at the Viva Cafe in Araneta City, Sue opened up about the current state of her love life with Dominic.

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Sue Ramirez

Kapamilya actress Sue Ramirez gave a beautiful, blooming aura when asked about her relationship with Dominic Roque.

During the press conference for her upcoming film "In Between" with Diego Loyzaga at the Viva Cafe in Araneta City, Sue opened up about the current state of her love life with Dom. 

"Ang saya lang po sa totoo lang, walang pressure. Masaya lang kami lagi, lumalabas kami, we enjoy our time together, explore, go on adventures together, and eat the best food together. (It's just fun, really, no pressure. We're always happy, go out, enjoy our time together, explore, go on adventures together, and eat the best food together)," Sue said. 

The actress also added that knowing each other's interests is essential when committing to a relationship.

"I think the foundation of starting a relationship is finding out kung ano yung mga interest niyo. So far, swak naman yung interest naming dalawa. (I believe the foundation of starting a relationship is finding your interests. So far, our interests are compatible)," she added.

It can be recalled that the two sparked dating rumors when they were spotted kissing inside a bar in November 2024. This added more fuel when they were spotted allegedly together at a social gathering, and again when they were seen holding hands crossing the street.

Sue Ramirez and Dominic Roque

Sue finally addressed the rumor and confirmed they were dating during her ambush interview in December for the Metro Manila Film Festival movie, "The Kingdom." Meanwhile, Dominic also addressed the rumor as he was present at the event at that time.

Dominic launched his Instagram with a subtle hard launch, posting a picture with Sue and his other celebrity friends at the Angrydobo Restaurant owned by Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo. Dominic and Sue first appeared together on the red carpet at the Star Magic Ball last April 4.

Before they hit it off, Dominic was in a three-year relationship with Bea Alonzo. He proposed to Bea in July 2023, but they eventually called it off in January 2024.

In November, Victorias City mayor Javi Benitez confirmed that he and Sue have parted ways after five years of being together.

Working again with Diego Loyzaga

After working on the film "How to Love Mr. Heartless" in 2022, Sue and Diego are back on the big screen.

"The good thing about working again with Diego is nagkasama na kami sa ASAP chill out for a couple of years. So every time we see each other, walang pagbabago, nagkukulitan pa rin kami. So ayun yung maganda about this project. (The good thing about working again with Diego is that we've been together on ASAP chill out for a couple of years. So every time we see each other, there's no difference; we're still the same kids. So that's what's good about this project)," Sue said. 

Sue Ramirez, Gino Santos, and Diego Loyzaga

"In Between" follows the story of Gaila (Sue) and Shane (Diego) as they navigate the world of "Situationship" or "In Between"

As each other’s in between, they help in different aspects of their lives, like at home, in their jobs, or in their sex/love lives. Gaila teaches the perfectionist Shane to loosen up and go on casual dating. Shane teaches Gaila to be brave and look for something that lasts in her work and love life.

Connected, but not committed, Shane and Gaila find this companionship convenient. But as one would expect, they start to fall in love. But when both feel like they’ve seen “The One” in each other, Shane’s TOTGA (The One That Got Away) returns.

Directed by Gino M. Santos, Pat Sugui, Lander Vera-Perez, Phoebe Walker, Benj Manalo, Guji Lorenzana, and more are joining the cast.

"In Between" shows nationwide in cinemas on May 7, 2025. 

WHY DO WE NEED TO TALK TO GOD?

 

If God is omniscient, doesn’t he know everything we need? And if he is both omnipotent and good, won’t he provide it whether we pray or not? So goes a common line of reasoning about prayer which influences many of us, to our own impoverishment and the detriment of Christ’s kingdom.

This reasoning has a certain logic and seems to have some biblical plausibility. Scripture clearly tells us that God is all-knowing: “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give an account” (Heb. 4:13), and that he is all-powerful and “...does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: ‘What have you done?’” (Da. 4:35), and that “...the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Ps. 100:5).

When we pray, we direct our thoughts toward God. It helps us dwell less on the tedium of life and more on God, His power, His love, and His work in our life. And aside from turning our thoughts to God, we also let God into our minds when we pray.

When tragedy strikes, it's easy to harden our hearts and cry out, "God, why did you let this happen?" Maybe then, we started praying. Before, when everything went smooth, we would not even think a minute about praying.

"To be a Christian without prayer, "said Martin Luther, "is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." Prayer is the only way of becoming what God wants us to be. This is the reason why Jesus spent many hours praying.

Unquestionable, our needs bring us to a place of prayer. Confronted with danger or tragedies, as I mentioned earlier, we look for God's help. Difficult times always cause the hearts of men to turn to God into prayer. 

Let me ask you: How long has it been since you've brought your burdens to God? Since you asked His forgiveness for your shortcomings? 

In his very interesting book "People in Prayer", Dr. John White reminds us that prayer is a divine-human interaction and it is always God who takes the initiative. White writes: "God speaks and we respond. God is always speaking. To hear his voice is not usually a mystical experience. It consists merely of a willingness to pay heed to God who lays a claim to our lives."

Yes, God always speaks. It is up to us whether we will listen and respond to Him. Many think we are the ones who initiate prayer. But prayers begin and end with God. 

There was a time, I wasn't in the mood to pray any more. It seemed that God didn't listen to my prayer any more. I didn't get what I prayed for. Of course, not... ! That's not the meaning of praying to God. Will all my wishes be granted? Heaven forbid!

Sometimes, after we have prayed, God's answers may puzzle us. But as time goes by and as events unfold we see God's purpose in his answers. We might get a larger vision, what HE likes. Not what WE like... .

Think about it for a moment" How does the idea that prayer begins and ends with God affect me now? Do I have the habit of listening to God? How do I respond to Him? How do I usually pray?

I confess that a long time ago I have been trying to persuade God to change other people in my surroundings or circumstances. Nothing changed. Of course not, what a fatal attraction? I got confused because God never granted my requests. Meanwhile I got God's answers to my prayers. Maybe very simple: I was willing to let God change me... .This is how each one of us should start. Happy endings. Because I prayed according to His will... .

Nowadays, I live a wonderful life in my second and last home, the Philippines. I never regretted moving here for good. I said this already many, many times. I have everything I could ask for. I can do everything I wish to do. Thank you Lord.

The Kahimyang Project

 

#TodayInFilipinoHistory #OnThisDay, April 22, 1919, Edith Cutaran Lopez-Tiempo was born in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya!

A trailblazing Filipino poet, fiction writer, and literary critic, her works captured the heart of Philippine literature with profound themes and timeless storytelling. Let's honor her contributions to our cultural heritage! #FilipinoLiterature #EdithTiempo #PhilippineHeritage #FilipinoHistory #KahimyangProject