Politics · Singapore Bureau
Filipino Cardinal Tagle becomes first Asian dean of Catholic cardinals
Pope Francis has approved the election of Cardinal Luis Tagle of the Philippines as dean of the College of Cardinals, marking a historic first for Asia in leading the influential body that will eventually select the next pontiff.
LSN Singapore ·
VATICAN CITY — Cardinal Luis Tagle of the Philippines has been formally approved as dean of the College of Cardinals, the Vatican confirmed on Friday, making him the first Asian cleric to assume leadership of the elite ecclesiastical body. The approval by Pope Francis represents a significant shift in the Church's power structure, elevating an Asian prelate to one of the most prestigious positions within the Catholic hierarchy. The dean presides over the College of Cardinals, which holds considerable influence in Church governance and will play a central role in selecting Pope Francis's successor. Tagle, who has served as a prominent voice on social justice issues and interfaith dialogue, brings extensive experience in pastoral leadership from his work in the Philippines. His appointment underscores the growing prominence of Asian clergy within the global Catholic Church and reflects demographic shifts in the faith's centre of gravity toward Asia and Africa.