The recent election of Pope Leo XIV has stirred deep pride and hope among the Augustinian community in the Philippines, particularly for those who recall personal encounters with the then Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost.
One of them is Fr. Nelson G. Zerda, OSA, parish priest of San Jose Parish Placer in Iloilo City, who fondly remembers the new pontiff’s previous visits to Iloilo City in 2002 and 2006, and his leadership during his stint as then Augustinian Prior General.
Fr. Zerda described Pope Leo XIV—formerly Cardinal Prevost—as a “troubleshooter,” known for his calm and analytical approach to challenges within the order. His previous experience as a missionary in South America and Peru gave him a global perspective that he brought into every discussion.
Also, Fr. Zerda recalled that whenever issues arose from different communities or institutions, Pope Leo XIV addressed them not just with pastoral care but with the precision of a canon lawyer and the insight of a seasoned missionary.
Fr. Zerda admits he never expected Cardinal Prevost to be elected, but believed that the late Pope Francis saw something in him while still being considered “papabile”—a potential candidate for the papacy.
“Of course, we are very happy and we are hopeful that Pope Leo XIV would unite the church once again as what the late Pope Francis has started, the church to become more participatory and to be able to do its mission,” he said.
Before becoming the new pontiff, then Fr. Prevost was called by Pope Francis to Rome in 2023 to be the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, promoting him as Archbishop. Pope Francis created him Cardinal in the same year, where he was assigned to the Diaconate of Saint Monica.
Fr. Zerda is also optimistic that Pope Leo XIV will strengthen the church’s commitment to synodality—a vision championed by then Pope Francis to make the church more participatory and mission-oriented.
“He is a leader, methodical and the way he presides the chapter before, he really follows the processes, the systems, the methods,” Fr. Zerda added.
In 2022, then Cardinal Prevost visited Iloilo City; and again in 2006 for congregation-led activities at the University of San Agustin. During his stay, he explored the historic district of Villa in Arevalo, dined at the iconic Tatoy’s restaurant, and visited churches throughout the city, leaving quiet footprints of faith and hope for all Ilonggos—long before white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, proclaiming him Pope the supreme pontiff.
Now, as Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, the Ilonggos and Augustinian brothers in the Philippines offer their unwavering support.
“Be assured of our prayers and cooperation, Pope Leo XIV. Expect more participation from your brothers here in the Philippines. God bless you,” Fr. Zerda said. (JNH/PIA Iloilo)
