MANILA — Pope Leo XIV is considering a possible visit to the Philippines, according to Kalookan Bishop Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David.

In an interview, David said Church leaders have already reached out to the pontiff to express that he would be warmly received 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.

However, David noted that the timing of a potential visit remains unclear, pointing out that the country’s political calendar may affect the plans.

“Kasi yung atmosphere hindi masyadong conducive kung darating siya dito panahong ng eleksyon,” he added.

The cardinal also shared that Leo, who previously served as prior general of the Augustinian Order, once referred to the Philippines as his home base in Asia during a conversation following the conclave.

He added that the pontiff had already visited the Philippines in the past as a bishop, including stops in Manila and Cebu during his time with the Augustinian Order.

David said a possible visit may also depend on the Pope’s regional schedule, noting that Pope Leo XIV is expected to travel to South Korea in 2027 to lead the World Youth Day celebration.

If the visit pushes through, it would be the fourth papal trip to the Philippines, following the last visit by Pope Francis in 2015.