Pope Francis in Manila urges leaders to end corruption
Pope Francis has called on leaders to fight corruption and end "scandalous" social inequalities, on the first full day of his Philippine visit, the BBC reported.
The Pope was speaking at a welcome ceremony at the presidential palace hosted by President Benigno Aquino.
He is now celebrating a Mass at the capital's Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
The pontiff was greeted by huge crowds as he arrived in the overwhelmingly Catholic country on Thursday.
The highlight of the papal visit will be on Sunday, when an open-air Mass is expected to attract millions.
The Pope is on a six-day tour of Asia. Earlier in the week, he visited Sri Lanka.
Speaking at Friday's welcome ceremony to the Philippine president and other officials, Pope Francis called for leaders "to reject every form of corruption, which diverts resources from the poor" and to make concerted efforts to ensure inclusivity.
"It is now, more than ever, necessary that political leaders be outstanding for honesty, integrity and commitment to the common good," he added.