Pope Francis, this morning, made a speech at the Malacanang Palace highlighting his purpose of the visit and important social issues that the Filipinos are facing, and his thoughts on these concerns.
Firstly, Pope Francis stated his purpose of the visit which is “above all pastoral”, to proclaim God’s gospel and to express his closeness to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda, commending how the Filipinos were able to stand strong after the tragedy through faith in God.
Together with many people throughout the world, I have admired the heroic strength, faith and resilience demonstrated by so many Filipinos in the face of this natural disaster, and so many others.
The Pope further mentioned that the rebuilding after the typhoon taught the Filipinos and other nations the importance of working together and drawing resources in order to face new challenges.
Photo Credit: GMA Network
Secondly, Pope Francis emphasized that political leaders need to be outstandingly honest, giving their full commitment and have integrity to help preserve the abundant resources the Philippines has.
As many voices in your nation have pointed out, it is now, more than ever, necessary that political leaders be outstanding for honesty, integrity and commitment to the common good. In this way they will help preserve the rich human and natural resources with which God has blessed this country.
Photo Credit: Time
The Pope’s third message was to listen to the voice of the poor in order to break bonds of injustice and oppression. He further mentioned that reforming social structures that create poverty and neglecting needs a conversion of the mind and heart.
In addition, as 2015 is the “Year of the Poor”, he dared Filipinos from all walks of life to reject all forms of corruption which draws away the resources from the poor.
I hope that this prophetic summons will challenge everyone, at all levels of society, to reject every form of corruption which diverts resources from the poor, and to make concerted efforts to ensure the inclusion of every man and woman and child in the life of the community.
Lastly, Pope Francis stressed the essential role of families and the youth in the society. He stated that training of essential values start in the family, and that it is important that families and the local communities should get the support they need to bring a culture of integrity in the society.
For this reason, families and local communities must be encouraged and assisted in their efforts to transmit to our young the values and the vision which can help bring about a culture of integrity – one which honors goodness, truthfulness, fidelity and solidarity as the firm foundation and the moral glue which holds society together.
The Pope concluded his speech by reminding the Filipinos of the essential role the Philippines has in promoting understanding and cooperation among the countries in Asia, mentioning his trust that there would be progress in the peace situation in Mindanao, and by giving a blessing to the nation.
In a particular way, I express my trust that the progress made in bringing peace to the south of the country will result in just solutions in accord with the nation’s founding principles and respectful of the inalienable rights of all, including the indigenous peoples and religious minorities.
Upon all of you, and upon all the men, women and children of this beloved nation, I cordially invoke God’s abundant blessings.
Read the full text of Pope Francis’ speech at the Malacanang Palace here, as published by GMA Network.
G.A. had a lot of professional working experiences in different fields and industries before finally deciding to write articles in 2014. She is a Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian who also has a passion for teaching, training and facilitating. More than all her skills and passions, she is very much grateful that she is blessed with an adorable daughter and a loving husband.
G.A. Viray
