Article updated: 3/7/2013 11:07 AM

Filipino cardinal stirs papal talk with rapid rise

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Philippine Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle's best response against the tide of secularism, clergy sex abuse scandals and rival-faith competition could be his reputation for humility. His compassion for the poor and unassuming ways have impressed followers in his homeland, Asia's largest Catholic nation, and church leaders in the Vatican.

Associated Press

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Asia's most prominent Roman Catholic leader knows how to reach the masses: He sings on stage, preaches on TV, brings churchgoers to laughter and tears with his homilies. And he's on Facebook. Philippine Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle's rising star has opened a previously unimaginable possibility: An Asian pope.

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