Being evangelized in Southeast Asia since the 15th century, Catholicism was introduced into the Philippines in the 16th century by the Spanish. The Philippines today has the population of 90 million, of which 80% are Catholics. This makes it the third largest Catholic population in the world after Brazil and Mexico.
Catholics in the Philippines canonized the Santo Nino or the Christ Child. People believe the Santo Nino to be capable of many miracles, including restoration of health, protection from enemies and natural disasters. The Santo Nino, therefore, is present everywhere. The Fiesta del Santo Nino is the most important Catholic celebration in the Philippines.