VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has approved the election of Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle as dean of the Catholic Church’s College of Cardinals. The appointment marks the first time an Asian cleric has held the senior position.
The Vatican announced the decision on Friday. Cardinal Tagle, 69, succeeds Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 92, whose resignation Pope Leo has accepted.
Tagle previously served as Archbishop of Manila. Since 2020, he has held senior responsibilities at the Vatican. He also emerged as a widely discussed candidate for the papacy before the May 2025 conclave elected Leo XIV following the death of Pope Francis.
Cardinal Tagle Takes on a Key Vatican Role
Cardinal Tagle heads the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, which leads the Church’s missionary work. He is also known for his approachable manner, warm smile and the nickname “Chito.”
He was considered a close ally of Pope Francis. His new position gives him a prominent role in the Church’s leadership and future papal transitions.
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What the Dean of the College of Cardinals Does
The dean serves as the “first among equals” among the Church’s highest-ranking cardinals. The position does not give its holder direct governing authority over fellow cardinals. Instead, the dean coordinates their work and carries important responsibilities during a change of pope.
When a pope dies or resigns, the dean plays a central role in preparing for the conclave, the confidential gathering in the Sistine Chapel where eligible cardinals elect a new pope.
The dean is elected by cardinals who belong to the Order of Bishops. The pope must approve the election. Under Church law, the position carries a five-year term, which may be renewed once.
A Rare Appointment for an Asian Cardinal
Europeans have traditionally held the deanship. However, the late Beninese Cardinal Bernardin Gantin served in the role from 1993 to 2002.
Tagle’s election marks a significant milestone for Asian representation in the Church’s senior leadership. He was widely viewed as a potential papal candidate in 2025, and his latest appointment further strengthens his standing within the Vatican.
At 71, Pope Leo XIV is relatively young compared with many of his predecessors. The dean’s role, therefore, may remain important for years to come as the Church prepares for its eventual next papal transition.
