Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, a humble bishop from Caloocan, Philippines, was pleasantly astounded when Pope Francis appointed him as a cardinal. In an exclusive interview with the BBC just before heading to Rome for the conclave, Cardinal David reflected on his unexpected journey to becoming one of three Filipino cardinals participating in selecting the next pope.
“Not even in my wildest imagination did I think this would happen,”
expressed Cardinal David as he shared his disbelief at being elevated to such a prestigious position despite serving a small diocese primarily inhabited by slum dwellers and urban poor. His appointment symbolized Pope Francis’ commitment to empowering grassroots leaders within the Catholic Church.
The late pontiff’s vision of reconnecting the Church with its congregants resonated deeply in the Philippines, home to nearly 80% Roman Catholics. The country’s religious landscape reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, where faith intertwines with societal norms. However, challenges like political opposition to church teachings on family planning and rising charismatic denominations posed dilemmas for traditional Catholic values.
Expert sociologist Jayeel Cornelio noted that despite its deep-rooted presence, the Catholic Church faced declining influence over national policies. The passage of progressive laws like the Reproductive Health Act showcased shifting societal attitudes away from strict adherence to church doctrine. This evolving dynamic underscored a broader trend where religious institutions grappled with adapting to changing times while upholding core beliefs.
Amidst these transformations stood figures like Cardinal David, who courageously confronted social injustices during President Duterte’s controversial war on drugs. The cardinal’s outspoken criticism of extrajudicial killings and unwavering support for marginalized communities exemplified his embodiment of compassionate leadership rooted in service.
“It was just too much seeing dead bodies left and right,”
Cardinal David recounted emotionally, reflecting on the atrocities inflicted upon innocent lives caught in the violent drug war crossfire. His advocacy extended beyond spiritual guidance as he provided sanctuary and rehabilitation programs for those affected by the ongoing crisis—a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice.
The narrative of Cardinal David mirrored a broader historical arc within Philippine Catholicism, marked by moments of moral reckoning intertwined with political upheavals. From challenging authoritarian regimes under martial law to navigating contemporary debates around divorce legislation, church leaders navigated complex terrain shaped by competing interests and societal shifts.
As voices like Geraldine Roman—an LGBTQ+ advocate serving in Congress—championed inclusive policymaking against conservative resistance from certain ecclesiastical quarters, tensions between state governance and religious influence came into sharper focus. These clashes highlighted divergent approaches towards addressing pressing social issues while respecting individual freedoms enshrined in constitutional rights.
In navigating these multifaceted dynamics, Cardinal David epitomized Pope Francis’ call for humility and openness amidst institutional challenges plaguing global Catholicism—from clergy abuse scandals to waning congregational participation. His journey from an ordinary bishop representing underserved communities to a cardinal wielding significant influence underscored a poignant chapter in Philippine church history amid turbulent socio-political landscapes.
By standing firm in his convictions while embodying compassion towards those most vulnerable, Cardinal David embodied a beacon of hope amidst uncertainties—a testament not only to personal resilience but also collective faith transcending boundaries across nations.
