Cardinal David: Any eligible cardinal can be elected Pope

Kalookan Archbishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David stated that any eligible cardinal can be chosen by the Holy Spirit to become the next Pope, including less-known candidates like Pope Francis.

Cardinal David emphasized during a GMA interview on Wednesday, April 23, that there are no predetermined papal election candidates and cardinals will vote for anyone they believe should lead the Roman Catholic Church.

While Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is frequently discussed due to his prominence, David noted that unexpected choices can be made by the Holy Spirit, as seen with Pope Francis's selection.

David reiterated that the cardinal electors pray and discern carefully to choose the right leader at this time, highlighting the significant responsibility of the papacy as a global unifier.

The bishop will travel to Rome on Thursday to attend Pope Francis's funeral and participate in the conclave where he will vote for the next Pope alongside other eligible Filipino cardinals.