"I think that Pope Francis can make a difference by encouraging the Filipino people to stand against the culture of corruption and to fight for their basic human rights," says Jian Carlo Ramos Gomez, National Deputy Secretary General of a university publication group, the College Editors Guild of the Philippines.
Courtesy Jian Carlo Ramos Gomez
Ching Laureno Gabasa, whose daughter is pictured here, believes the Pope is a symbol of their strong faith. "We are mostly concerned about our readiness in cases of calamities and if not for our faith, we wouldn't be able to survive the ordeal," says Gabasa, a civil servant.
Courtesy Ching Laureno Gabasa
"We feel the Pope's visit (will) kindle hope among our people who are constantly devastated by natural calamities nowadays. His visit will unite our country once more. It's like a renewal of our faith. His visit will surely bring joy to all," says Joy-joy Alegado, a doctor in Cebu, Philippines.
Courtes Joy-joy Alegado
Sheryl Alapad, a member of the National Union of Students of the Philippines, has a message for the Pope: "May you bless us with your guidance, dear Pope, as we battle against inequality, as we fight for education, better social services, and for peace and unity in our nation."
Courtesy Sheryl Alapad
"The Filipinos believe that the Pope will help us to pray for peace and humanity, that's all we hope for," says Clara Marie Marquez.
Courtesy Clara Marie Marquez
"My family and I are not Roman Catholic but still we are Christians and have the same faith in believing (in) Jesus Christ. I believe that Pope Francis visit here in the Philippines will give more hope to all Filipinos, especially for those who were recently affected by Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in Tacloban City," says Peter Agoy Jr., a nursing graduate.
Courtesy Peter Agoy Jr.
"Gee Eecchh Kyu" and her family will be attending the Pope's mass in Manila. Her son, 5-year-old Khalil Noah Macarat, holds the sign in the picture. "We are so happy and blessed (that) he chose the Philippines for his visit!" says "Gee Eecchh Kyu."
Courtesy Gee Eecchh Kyu
Alexia Mae, a college student, believes the Pope holds an important role in influencing young people in the Philippines. "Many Filipino citizens, especially the youth, don't make religion the center of their life and the basis of their decisions. That's why the Pope's visit is important: To empower religion here in the Philippines," says Mae.
Courtesy Alexia Mae
Don Elys, who lives in Cebu City in the Philippines, won't be able to welcome the Pope this time around, but hopes to see him in person one day.
Courtesy Don Elys
"I hope the Pope will speak about peace for the whole world," says Joy Coliflores Becbec, a tutor in Cebu, Philippines.
