The best gift that Pinoys can give to Pope Francis is to put his messages into action.

Senator Bam Aquino issued this challenge, saying that it is now time to live out the words of the Holy Father during his five-day stay in the country.

“Putting the Pope’s messages about social justice, solidarity with the poor and love for the other person, into action is the best gift that we can give to Papa Kiko for inspiring us to become better persons and better citizens of this country,” Bam said.

During his homilies and preachings, Pope Francis appealed to government officials and the youth to help the poor and the marginalized.

The Holy Father also called on government officials to “reject every form of corruption which diverts resources from the poor.”

“The Pope’s visit must inspire us to eradicate graft and corruption in government. And this needs everyone’s cooperation, vigilance and faith to make the reforms happen,” Bam said.

Bam also calls on the government to focus on fighting poverty and providing employment and livelihood opportunities to the poor and marginalized to help uplift their living conditions.

“We must go beyond the common understanding of charity.  We must recognize the dignity of the poor by providing them the opportunity of earning for themselves and their families,” Bam said.

Meanwhile, the senator lauded devotees who attended the different Papal events for their discipline amid the challenging conditions.

“We laud our countrymen for their discipline, especially during the Holy Mass at the Quirino Grandstand. Your immeasurable devotion to the Holy Father and to the Catholic faith is commendable and as inspiring as well,” the senator said.

Photo source: President Aquino’s Official Facebook Page