05/05/2025
Open Letter to the CBCP and the Cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church.
From the Representatives and Leaders of the Atheist Organizations in the Greater Philippines:
With Pope Francis’s passing a process to select his successor will soon begin. As atheist and secular organizations in the Philippines, we take this moment to voice our unequivocal support for Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle to become the next Pope. Below, we outline our case, anticipating and addressing potential objections to our stance.
Accusation 1: “Why should atheists care about who becomes Pope?”
It’s true—we do not share the Catholic faith or any religious belief. Some might question why we’d weigh in on a matter internal to the Church. Our answer is simple: we live in the Philippines, a nation where Catholicism shapes culture, community, and even politics. For over 500 years, since Spain introduced the faith, Catholicism has defined this country, earning it the title of “Asia’s Most Catholic Nation.” It displaced indigenous beliefs, Buddhism, and Hinduism, and while Islam endured in Mindanao despite resistance, the Church’s influence is undeniable. As secular advocates, we’re not detached observers; we’re part of this society. We join our families in baptisms, Christmas, and Easter—not out of piety, but out of love and connection. The Pope’s identity matters here, and we have a stake in seeing it reflect the Philippines’ unique devotion.
Accusation 2: “You’re overstepping as outsiders with no authority in the Church.”
We acknowledge our lack of formal standing in Catholic affairs. The selection of a Pope rests with the College of Cardinals, not with us. Yet, as Filipinos, we speak from a place of shared history and concern for our people. The Church often influences our lives—sometimes constructively, sometimes less so. We’ve seen its leaders provide aid during typhoons and earthquakes, offering relief to all, regardless of belief. We’ve also witnessed its charitable work for the poor, which we deeply respect. Supporting Archbishop Tagle isn’t about meddling; it’s about advocating for a leader whose roots align with this nation’s unparalleled commitment to the faith—a commitment the Church itself should honor.
Accusation 3: “The Philippines doesn’t deserve this honor over other nations.”
Some might argue that other countries—Italy, Germany, Poland, or Argentina, all of which have produced Popes—have equal or greater claim. We counter that no nation rivals the Philippines’ steadfast loyalty to Roman Catholicism. For over five centuries, Filipinos have embraced the Church, even as it reshaped their spiritual landscape. Asia, a continent of immense diversity, has never had a Pope, despite its growing Catholic population. The Philippines stands out as the region’s beacon of the faith. Elevating a Filipino like Tagle would justly recognize this dedication, placing Asia on the global Catholic stage.
Accusation 4: “Tagle isn’t the only or best candidate.”
Critics might point to other cardinals with stronger records or broader appeal. We don’t dispute that the Church has many capable leaders. But Tagle embodies something special: a Filipino perspective forged in a devout, resilient nation. His compassion, eloquence, and service resonate with the Church’s mission—and with the Philippines’ spirit. Italians and Poles have celebrated Popes from their soil; it’s time for Filipinos to feel that pride.
Conclusion:
We, the undersigned, nominate Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle as the next Pope. This is not a demand born of faith, but a call rooted in respect for our country’s legacy and hope for its recognition.
