Ilonggos are optimistic that the newly elected Pope Leo XIV will continue the progressive and inclusive vision of his predecessor, Pope Francis, particularly in championing the poor and marginalized.

“(I hope) he will continue the liberalization of the church, the inclusiveness of Pope Francis, and the continued support especially for the oppressed and poor,” Mayor Jerry Treñas said in an interview on Friday, May 9.

Treñas believed these values endeared Pope Francis to the developing countries, where Roman Catholicism remains strong and vibrant.

Meanwhile, Fr. Jonas Mejares, OSA, an Augustinian priest based in Iloilo, shared a personal encounter with the new pontiff, then Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, during a lunch at the Augustinian General Curia in Rome last April.

Mejares had a “strong sense” that Prevost could become pope —even though he was not widely seen as a frontrunner.

Mejares described Pope Leo XIV as “equipped doctrinally and pastorally,” highlighting his missionary experience in Peru and expertise in canon law.

“He is a canon lawyer; at the same time, he has exposure as a missionary in Peru. He was able to bring to the table these two big elements to become a pope. One is the pastoral exposure, which he earned in Peru, and the other is expertise in law. He can easily navigate the complexities of the structure and central government at the Vatican,” he said.

Mejares said he was surprised upon learning that Prevost was elected as pope. It took him a while to regain his composure.

“I cried, until now it doesn’t sink into me that it’s now real -my wish and my dream and anticipation for him to become a pope became real,” he said.

As a Doctor of Canon Law, Mejares said Pope Leo “can strike a balance actually between conservatives with rational and progressive” and can serve as a bridge to unite them.

He is also fluent in several languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese. He also understands Latin and German.

“He’s a preacher who doesn’t need an interpreter. And like Pope Francis, he is humble, simple, compassionate, and firm in his convictions,” Mejares added.Perla Lena/PNA