Filipinos are deeply mourning the death of Pope Francis, More than a spiritual leader, he was a shepherd who embraced the margins, a reformer who challenged convention, and a father figure who taught the world the power of Mercy and Compassion—the very theme of his apostolic visit to the Philippines in January 2015.
His visit to the Philippines evoked reverence and affection; it served as an occasion for national reflection, renewal, and collective grace. Pope Francis comforted a nation still reeling from the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). In the rain-soaked Mass in Tacloban, he stood in silent solidarity with survivors, his words and tears blending with those of the people.
We were reminded that in March 2020, as the coronavirus pandemic swept the world, he stood alone in a tent on St. Peter’s square and delivered a reassuring message. As cited in St. Matthew’s gospel, Jesus asked his disciples, "Why are you so afraid?" after they woke him up in the middle of a storm, fearing they were going to drown. He then rebuked the wind and waves, and they became calm.
His Mass at Luneta drew an estimated six million faithful—perhaps the largest papal gathering in history. Amid a sea of humanity, Pope Francis called on us to “learn how to weep” for the suffering of others, to rediscover simplicity, and to protect our children, our poor, and our environment. In Malacañang, he urged our leaders to reject corruption and serve with integrity. At the Mall of Asia Arena and the University of Santo Tomas, he addressed the youth, reminding them to keep their dreams alive, and to find joy in service. And at Manila Cathedral, he called on the clergy and consecrated persons to be humble and poor, faithful stewards of God’s mercy.
After his wake and burial, the world looks to the Sistine Chapel, where the College of Cardinals will soon gather in conclave to elect the 267th successor of Saint Peter. Among the electors are three Filipino cardinals—Jose F. Advincula, Pablo Virgilio David, and Luis Antonio G. Tagle, currently pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization and a figure often mentioned as papabile—a potential pope.
For many Filipinos, the prospect of Cardinal Tagle ascending to the papacy involves more than national pride. It is a testament to the universal Church’s recognition of Asia’s growing spiritual energy and the enduring faith of the Filipino people, now the third-largest Catholic population in the world. Cardinal Tagle, known for his humility, pastoral sensibility, and theological depth, shares many traits with Pope Francis. Whether or not he is chosen, his presence among the frontrunners affirms the unique contribution of the Filipino Church to global Catholicism.
As the conclave convenes, the world yearns for continuity in compassion, moral courage, and joyful simplicity. Pope Francis set a tone of inclusivity, emphasizing mercy over judgment, engagement over exclusion. He championed the poor, listened to the youth, welcomed those on the periphery, and challenged the Church to be more Christ-like.
The next pope must walk in this same light—accessible, grounded, and prophetic—a shepherd who smells like the sheep, as Pope Francis once said. The Filipino nation, deeply grateful for the gift of his life and leadership, now joins the rest of the Catholic world in prayerful hope that the next Vicar of Christ will continue to be a bridge-builder, a healer, and a voice for those who suffer.
