Entertainment 09/05/2025 10:22

Netizens' reaction as Cardinal Tagle didn’t make pope

Following the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new pope, Filipino netizens expressed their disappointment that Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle was not chosen. Many had rallied for Tagle, who was considered a frontrunner, but ultimately, the


Following
the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new pope, Filipino netizens took to social media to express their dismay that Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle was not chosen for the papacy. Cardinal Prevost, who assumed the papal name Leo XIV, was elected as the 267th Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church by the College of Cardinals.
Tagle, widely considered a frontrunner and one of the “papabile” (cardinals likely to succeed Pope Francis), had become a favorite among many, particularly in the Philippines. Known for his progressive views within the Church, Tagle was seen as someone who could bring a fresh perspective to the papacy, especially as the first Filipino pope and the first to come from Asia.

The disappointment was palpable online, with many fans humorously processing the news. 

Others compared Tagle to iconic Filipino runner-ups in various competitions, namely, Janine Tugonon in Miss Universe, Jessica Sanchez in American Idol, and Manila Luzon in Rupaul’s Drag Race.

Some netizens also compared the situation to the 2022 loss of former Vice President Leni Robredo in the presidential election, which took place on the same day as the papal conclave.



One user, @xtiancuaderno, shared on X (formerly Twitter), "Happy that we have a new pope, but I can’t shrug off the what-ifs had Tagle won the title." This sentiment reflects the feeling of many who had hoped for Tagle’s election, but now, after the results, are left to ponder what could have been.

On the other hand, some users took a more practical view of the situation. User @cillobyte mentioned, “I guess one of the good things about Tagle not being elected is he can continue his programs like The Word Exposed,” a reference to the popular show Tagle hosts. "I’m not sure if he can continue if he got elected lol (or can he?)."

There was also humor injected into the conversation. @selrahc_19 joked, “Hay nako Cardinal Tagle, ang problema kasi sa’yo wala kang pagkukusa. Dapat pumunta ka na lang sa balcony kahit ’di ka pa tinatawag,” referencing the traditional moment when a newly elected pope appears on the balcony to greet the crowd.

A more critical take came from @beananaeb, who wrote: “These oh-so-proud Filipinos were just rooting for Tagle so they’d have something to brag about. And now that it didn’t happen, they’re acting disappointed or something. And really, what difference would it make if the pope isn’t Filipino anyway?”

Others, however, took a more faith-driven approach. @NoliEala shared, “As a Filipino, the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as pope was not the result I expected. But my faith tells me Pope Leo XIV is God’s divine will. I remain proud and grateful that a Filipino cardinal, Luis Tagle, was strongly considered to be St. Peter’s successor. AMDG.”

Some users, like @sofnev2015, criticized the social media-driven campaign, noting, “Hindi nadadaan sa socmed ingay iyang election ng pope,” meaning that the process should not be influenced by online chatter. “Nakakahiya pa nga ’yung ibang group na todo post sa qualifications ni Tagle at chance maging pope. Itong naging pope, low profile lang,” they added, commenting on the modest way Prevost handled his candidacy.


However,
it is important to note that the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) had urged Filipinos to avoid “campaigning” for Tagle. Instead, they called on the faithful to pray for Tagle, emphasizing that the election of the next pope should be left to the discretion of the College of Cardinals.

Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, due to complications from a stroke, at the age of 88.


Short Biography of Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle:
  • Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle: Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is a Filipino prelate of the Roman Catholic Church and the Archbishop of Manila. Known for his intelligence, humility, and progressive views, Tagle is one of the most influential Church leaders in the Philippines. He gained global recognition during his tenure as the President of Caritas Internationalis and has served in various key roles in the Vatican. Tagle’s potential to become pope was widely discussed, particularly due to his popularity and progressive stances within the Church.


The disappointment surrounding Cardinal Tagle’s non-election highlights the strong support he has among Filipinos and those who admire his leadership. While the election of Cardinal Prevost marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church, the fervor for Tagle reflects the hope for change and representation that many Catholics in the Philippines were wishing for.

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