ILOILO City – The election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV — the first American-born leader of the Roman Catholic Church — was met with joy and hopeful prayers from the Archdiocese of Jaro and Ilonggo faithful, who hailed his missionary background and expressed optimism for a papacy grounded in unity and compassion.
The announcement came early Friday morning (Philippine time), May 10, when the cardinals of the conclave introduced the 267th successor of Saint Peter at the Vatican.
Pope Leo XIV, 69, is an Augustinian friar and dual US-Peruvian citizen known for his missionary work in Latin America.
“We are grateful to the Lord,” said Reverend Father Angelo Colada, spokesperson of the Archdiocese of Jaro, in a phone interview. “My hope is that Pope Leo XIV continues the reforms and compassion-centered leadership of Pope Francis. His message of ‘Peace be with you all’ is a powerful start — his papacy could usher in greater solidarity in a divided world.”
Colada added that the new pontiff is expected to embody the spirit of the missionary church, emphasizing service to the poor, upholding the rights of workers, and sustaining the faithful in their spiritual journey.
He also called Pope Leo the “Pope of the Rosary,” expressing hope that he lives out a vision of deep spirituality and justice.
Local churchgoers and vendors at the Jaro Cathedral echoed the excitement. “I was hoping for (Filipino) Cardinal (Luis Antonio) Tagle, but I’m still happy we now have a new Pope to lead us,” said one devotee who introduced herself only as “Jane.”
Another, student Jan Qynlymer Aaron, remarked: “We’ll see how he leads, but for now, it’s reassuring that the Catholic Church remains strong.”
Father Colada also addressed social media criticism over Tagle not being elected: “This isn’t a competition. It’s the Holy Spirit who guides the cardinals. As Catholics, we must respect God’s will and continue supporting Cardinal Tagle and the Church.”
Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV is widely considered a bridge between North and South America, having served for years as a missionary and bishop in Peru before his rise to the Vatican. His election marks a historic milestone, not only for the United States but also for global Catholics who look to his leadership during a time of social, economic, and spiritual transformation./PN
