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Pope Leo XIV waves to the crowd from the popemobile after the Easter Mass as part of the Holy Week celebrations, at St Peter's square in the Vatican on April 5, 2026.
AFP / Alberto Pizzoli
MANILA, Philippines — Pope Leo XIV has expressed interest in visiting the Philippines, Kalookan Bishop Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David said.
In an interview, David said Church leaders have already written to the pontiff to convey that he would be "most welcome" in the country.
"I think he is interested in visiting the Philippines. Pero kung kailan, hindi pa sigurado," David said in an interview with One News over the weekend.
He noted that timing remains uncertain, citing the country’s political schedule.
"Kasi yung atmosphere hindi masyadong conducive kung darating siya dito panahong ng eleksyon," he added.
David said Leo, the former prior general of the Augustinian Order, had previously described the Philippines as his home base in Asia during a conversation after the conclave.
The pontiff has visited the country before as a bishop, including Manila and Cebu, during his time with the Augustinian order.
Possible schedule, regional visits. David said Pope Leo XIV is expected to visit South Korea in 2027 to preside over World Youth Day, which could factor into any potential visit to the Philippines.
If realized, the trip would mark the fourth papal visit to the country, following the most recent visit by Pope Francis in 2015.
