President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. extended his heartfelt congratulations on Friday to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost following his election as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Prevost succeeds Pope Francis and who shall now be known as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the spiritual leader of more than 1.4 billion Catholics across the globe.
“On behalf of the Philippines, I congratulate Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States on his election as the successor of Pope Francis,” President Marcos stated in his official statement.
He joined several other world leaders in acknowledging the significance of this moment for the global Catholic community and recognizing the role of the newly elected pontiff in guiding the Church into a new era by sending their congratulatory note.
President Marcos also expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV will continue the legacy of inclusivity and service successfully done by his predecessor.
In addition, he emphasized his optimism that the new pope will lead the Catholic Church with a compassionate heart, especially toward the underprivileged and vulnerable sectors of society.
“The Filipino people are also praying for the new pope’s strength and good health as he leads the faithful with grace, wisdom and compassion,” President Marcos added.
Cardinal Prevost brings with him a strong academic and pastoral background. Born in Chicago on September 14, 1955, he started his religious journey at a minor seminary under the Order of St. Augustine in St. Louis. He later pursued higher education at Villanova University in Philadelphia, an Augustinian institution, where he obtained a degree in mathematics.
Over the years, Prevost built a reputation for leadership and service. He served as the Archbishop-Bishop emeritus of Chiclayo in Peru and was elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023. That same year, he was appointed prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the Vatican’s most critical departments. This role gave him considerable insight into the workings of the Church and positioned him among its most influential figures.
