In the outskirts of Manila, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David emphasizes his unexpected elevation to cardinalhood and prepares for his role in the upcoming conclave in Rome. Often referred to as "Apu Ambo" by his community, he is one of three cardinals from the Philippines who will partake in the selection of the next pope. David's humble beginnings as a bishop in a low-income diocese, where he advocates for the urban poor, resonate with Pope Francis’s agenda of a more inclusive Church.
The Philippines, home to nearly 80% Catholics, stood as a bastion of devotion amidst challenges where political controversies and the rise of other religious groups set the church on a complex path. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is also viewed as a strong contender in the papal race, reflecting a distinctive Filipino connection to the Holy See.
David's legacy as a cleric is defined by his dedicated efforts during the harsh realities of the Duterte administration's drug war, where he openly criticized actions leading to rampant killings in his diocese. With many lives claimed, including that of a local teenager, Kian Delos Santos, David pushed back against systemic injustice, gaining national and international attention. His commitment led to death threats and government backlash but also garnered support from Pope Francis, who offered encouragement during a visit.
Historically, the church's role in the Philippines has traversed through power, colonialism, and liberation movements. While facing current sociopolitical adversities—like the ongoing debates on reproductive health and divorce, which challenge traditional Catholic doctrines—David believes the church must strive for a moral and social leadership devoid of political ambition.
In engaging with issues faced by the Filipino populace, even lawmakers like Geraldine Roman call for church neutrality as the legislative landscape evolves. The participation of trans voices in the political arena reflects broader shifts in Filipino society, revealing a community progressively willing to challenge longstanding doctrines.
David acknowledges the church's moral credibility has dwindled due to a series of scandals, a sentiment echoed during past governments, including Duterte’s. The path forward relies on humility and accountability, mirroring Pope Francis's approach to vulnerability and criticism. For Cardinal David, the essence lies in fostering a connection with the marginalized and advocating for justice, resilience, and restorative change within both the church and society.
As he prepares to cast his vote in the conclave, Cardinal David embodies a persistent hope for a more empathetic church—to champion the plight of the weak while addressing internal and external shifts that will define Catholicism in the Philippines for generations to come.
The Philippines, home to nearly 80% Catholics, stood as a bastion of devotion amidst challenges where political controversies and the rise of other religious groups set the church on a complex path. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is also viewed as a strong contender in the papal race, reflecting a distinctive Filipino connection to the Holy See.
David's legacy as a cleric is defined by his dedicated efforts during the harsh realities of the Duterte administration's drug war, where he openly criticized actions leading to rampant killings in his diocese. With many lives claimed, including that of a local teenager, Kian Delos Santos, David pushed back against systemic injustice, gaining national and international attention. His commitment led to death threats and government backlash but also garnered support from Pope Francis, who offered encouragement during a visit.
Historically, the church's role in the Philippines has traversed through power, colonialism, and liberation movements. While facing current sociopolitical adversities—like the ongoing debates on reproductive health and divorce, which challenge traditional Catholic doctrines—David believes the church must strive for a moral and social leadership devoid of political ambition.
In engaging with issues faced by the Filipino populace, even lawmakers like Geraldine Roman call for church neutrality as the legislative landscape evolves. The participation of trans voices in the political arena reflects broader shifts in Filipino society, revealing a community progressively willing to challenge longstanding doctrines.
David acknowledges the church's moral credibility has dwindled due to a series of scandals, a sentiment echoed during past governments, including Duterte’s. The path forward relies on humility and accountability, mirroring Pope Francis's approach to vulnerability and criticism. For Cardinal David, the essence lies in fostering a connection with the marginalized and advocating for justice, resilience, and restorative change within both the church and society.
As he prepares to cast his vote in the conclave, Cardinal David embodies a persistent hope for a more empathetic church—to champion the plight of the weak while addressing internal and external shifts that will define Catholicism in the Philippines for generations to come.
