The time has come for Filipinos to determinedly reject corruption at all levels and for the country’s   leaders to lead by example and with a strong sense of honesty.

Down with corruption at all levels! And let it not drown us anymore.

No less than Pope Francis has posed this challenge in the course of his five-day apostolic journey and state visit to the country.

The People’s Pope has aired an urgent challenge that is better addressed than neglected.

The Pontiff, head of some 1.2 billion Catholics worldwide, has pointed out that honesty and the promotion of the common good are necessary as the Philippines pursues rebuilding from calamities and likewise builds the foundations of a modern society.

Pope’s wishes for PH: A government that is pro-people and a society that is pro-God.

“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,” visiting Pope Francis has said in a speech before top government officials at Malacañang Palace.

Political leaders take note — and better heed the Pope.

“In this way they will help preserve the rich human and natural resources with which God has blessed this country. Thus will they be able to marshal the moral resources needed to face the demands of the present, and to pass on to coming generations a society of authentic justice, solidarity, and peace,” the Pontiff  has emphasized.

Holistic mission and vision deserve realization.

“Essential to the attainment of these national goals is the moral imperative of ensuring social justice and respect for human dignity. The great biblical tradition enjoins on all peoples the duty to hear the voice of the poor. It bids us break the bonds of injustice and oppression which give rise to glaring, and indeed scandalous, social inequalities,” the Pope has added.

Time to reform the social structures which perpetuate poverty and the exclusion of the poor through a conversion of mind and heart, he has prescribed.

Pope Francis has stressed: “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 children — in the life of the community.”

Papal call: Reject corruption and help the poor.

“A fundamental role in the renewal of society is played, of course, by the family and especially by young people…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,” the Pope has advised.

Let us have a “culture” which honors goodness, truthfulness, fidelity, and solidarity as the firm foundation and moral glue of society, he has urged.

The Pope has also cited the heroism of Filipinos, especially super typhoon ‘Yolanda’ victims, in rising and rebuilding their lives, and efforts of the government to promote dialogue and cooperation between indigenous peoples and members of  different religions in the Southern Philippines.

“May the deepest spiritual values of the Filipino people continue to find expression in your efforts to provide your fellow citizens with an integral human development,” he has wished.

Likewise, in his eucharistic celebration at the Manila Cathedral, the Pope has  called on the clergy to examine their conscience, so much so that the Church is preparing for its fifth centenary and major challenges ahead.

Show humility and render more service to the people, especially the poor, he has suggested.

In a written message, Pope Francis has stated: “On the President (Aquino III) and people of this beloved land of the Philippines, I ask Almighty God’s abundant blessings of wisdom, discernment, prosperity and peace. “

To Pope Francis’ timely challenge/advise and ardent prayers for Filipinos, we say Amen.

On the other hand, President Aquino III has thanked Pope Francis for visiting the country   to an overwhelming welcome of millions of   Filipinos while House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. has proposed a House of Representatives’ resolution expressing its gratitude to the pontiff for taking time to extend God’s mercy and compassion to the Filipino people.

All is well that ends well — especially and with the mutual sharing of so much goodwill.