Manila (AsiaNews) – Filipino political leaders should "focus more on how to help the population rather than worry only about the next elections and the best moment to gain personal power," Card Gaudencio Rosales, archbishop of Manila, said after the mass that welcomed the capital's new auxiliary bishop.

Speaking to AsiaNews, the prelate said that the country's politicians "should learn from Jesus, and not just think of how they can be placed in power (but) rather how they can really be of help to the people".

Moreover, "as real followers of Christ, it is not only the country's leaders that should help other people, especially those in need, but everyone," he said.

The cardinal's statement was made as part of the welcome mass for Manila's new auxiliary bishop, Mgr Broderick Pabillo, which was celebrated last Tuesday.

In his homily, he reminded Pabillo of the primary task of a bishop—to teach, [and] preach the Gospel of God to all men, among others.
But more than preaching the Gospel, he said, the bishop must also work to inspire others to be good, compassionate and charitable to their fellow men. "We welcome you [. . .] to this work of hope and love," he said.
For his part, the new auxiliary bishop, in his message, urged the people of the Archdiocese to be patient with him while he is still learning the task of a new bishop.

"I beg you for your understanding. Please be patient with me. I'm learning. I know I will make mistakes, but I pray to God that it will not be big mistakes," he noted.
He said as a bishop, he knows he will be facing a lot of challenges. But he is confident that with the help of the Lord, the Blessed Mother, and with the prayers and support of those people around him, he will be able to accomplish the new task ahead of him.