Tens of thousands of people have lined the streets of the Philippines capital Manila to welcome Pope Francis.<br /><br /> It is his first visit to Asia’s largest Catholic nation where more than 80 percent of people are followers.<br /><br /> The country’s mounting one of its biggest ever security operations as the other pontiffs to visit were both targets of assassination attempts. <br /><br /> Several people are protesting, hoping the Pope will promote their plight.<br /><br /> Trade union leader, Renato Reyes said: “He’s been known to take a strong stand on social issues and that’s something truly relevant in the Philippines. We’re faced with massive poverty and human rights violations.”<br /><br /> Around six million people are expected to hear Pope Francis say Mass on Sunday. The government has declared a three-day public holiday and even closed financial markets.<br /><br /> The Pope will spend five days in the Philippines, the second stop of his Asian tour after Sri Lanka.<br /><br /> Pope Francis will also visit the central province of Leyte, wh
