The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has come to the defense of Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle over recent criticisms linking him to clergy sexual abuse cases, just days before the papal conclave in the Vatican.
In a statement released on May 2, the CBCP clarified that Tagle no longer holds direct authority over any diocesan bishops in the Philippines since assuming his post in the Roman Curia.
The CBCP emphasized that addressing abuse cases is under the jurisdiction of local bishops or religious superiors, not Tagle.
They also noted that Tagle had contributed to the drafting of pastoral guidelines against sexual abuse back in 2003.
However, watchdog group BishopAccountability.org claimed the guidelines are not available on either the CBCP or the Archdiocese of Manila websites.
The group’s co-director, Anne Barrett Doyle, criticized both Tagle and fellow papal contender Cardinal Pietro Parolin, questioning their commitment to addressing abuse within the Church.
Doyle further described Parolin as a “consummate secret-keeper,” casting doubt on the transparency of both cardinals.
The papal conclave, set for May 7, will elect a new pope following the death of Pope Francis last month at the age of 88.
Both Tagle and Parolin are widely seen as leading candidates to succeed the late pontiff.