Pope marks 500 years of Christianity in Philippines

Pope Francis presided over a Mass Sunday to mark the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines.

The Mass in St. Peter's Basilica began with a procession in traditional Filipino costumes and was celebrated with several representatives of the Filipino Church, including Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle.

In his homily, the Pope said Filipinos received the joy of the Gospel half a millennia ago, "and this joy is evident in your people. We see it in your eyes, on your faces, in your songs and in your prayers, the joy with which you carry your faith to other lands."

Francis also recognised the faith Filipinos offer through their work in the homes of many Italians where they serve as domestic helpers, babysitters or caregivers.

The Philippines, the third largest Catholic country in the world, commemorates the baptism of over 800 Filipinos in 1521 on the island of Cebu, which marked the beginning of a long history of evangelisation.

In 1595, the first Ecclesiastical Province was established.