Whether it is Francis II, Leo XIV, or a never-before-used name, a new pope's chosen name sends an early signal about his priorities and vision for the Church.

Francis’ successor will be selected by cardinals at the conclave that began on May 7. Cardinals, known as the “princes of the church,” rank just below the pope in the Roman Catholic Church; together, they are known as the College of Cardinals. When a pope dies, the college chooses a successor.

It's one reason why Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is believed to be a papabile, or frontrunner to replace Pope Francis – Tagle was also talked of as a contender in the last papal conclave 12 years ago. The country is considered a bright spot for the Roman Catholic church, where faith is strong, its rituals woven into the fabric of society.