In brief
Cardinal David reflects on his unexpected ascension to the papacy as he prepares to vote in the conclave, highlighting the struggles and moral dilemmas of the Catholic Church in a changing Philippines.
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, a key figure among the Filipino cardinals, is headed to the conclave to elect the next pope. Speaking at his cathedral in Caloocan, he shared his astonishment over being elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis just five months ago. “Not even in my wildest imagination did I think this would happen,” he remarked, emphasizing his humble background as a bishop serving a community predominantly made up of urban poor and slum dwellers.Cardinal David represents a significant facet of Pope Francis's legacy, committed to reconnecting the Church with the disenfranchised. As one of three Filipino cardinals voting in the conclave, he embodies the aspirations of a nation where nearly 80% of the population identifies as Roman Catholic. His appointment reflects a push towards inclusivity and engagement with the realities of marginalized communities.The Philippine Church faces substantial challenges, including political threats to its doctrines on family planning and divorce, which remain contentious issues in Filipino society. Cardinal David has made headlines for his active opposition to the violent drug war initiated by former President Rodrigo Duterte, particularly for advocating for justice and offering sanctuary to those targeted by police violence.During his tenure, he erected a memorial for Kian Delos Santos, a young victim of police brutality, underscoring the real human consequences of the drug policy. Cardinal David openly criticized the drug war, leading to personal threats, but he found support from Pope Francis, who urged him to remain safe amid the chaos.The church's historical influence in the Philippines has waned, with its moral authority challenged amid sexual abuse scandals and growing secularism. Discussions around issues like divorce and reproductive rights reflect the evolving societal landscape, with legislative changes progressing despite the Church's opposition.As Cardinal David prepares for the conclave, he is acutely aware of the Catholic Church's mission to adapt to contemporary struggles while remaining a moral compass in the society. He advocates for humility and transparency as means to restore the Church's credibility, abiding by the principles of engagement that Pope Francis has championed.
