Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula has criticized those who use the poor for their own gain.
Advincula also took a swipe against those who only remember the poor when it is election season.
"When we just remember the poor and put them on the center stage because it’s election time or because it’s the World Day of the Poor, we are more miserable than them,” CBCP News quoted Advincula.
The prelate called on the people to resist forces and structures that oppress and cause injustice.
“Let us fight any force and structure of oppression, exploitation, and the use of the poor to advance their selfish interests and welfare,” Advincula said.
He encouraged the faithful “to stand in solidarity with the poor to alleviate their sufferings."
The Cardinal led a dialogue at the Manila Cathedral with representatives of the different marginalized sectors in the archdiocese on Monday.