Pope urges bishops from Philippines to fight corruption

Pope John Paul II yesterday urged Catholic bishops from the Philippines, who played a central role in the removal from power of President Joseph Estrada, to keep up the battle against corruption. Speaking to a delegation of Bishops from the Philippines, John Paul said the church has a "major role" to play in ending corrupt regimes. He added: "To eliminate corruption calls for the committed support of all citizens, the resolute determination of the authorities and a firm moral conscience". Estrada was ousted as president in 2001 following widespread protests over his alleged corruption and misrule. He is currently being tried for economic plunder. Cardinal Jaime Sin, the recently retired as archbishop of Manila, led large street protests against his rule. In a separate announcement, the Vatican also announced that the Pope will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on 5 November at the Vartican.