Witnesses said many police were present May 8 but did nothing to stop the attack on about a dozen nuns.

Developments on the Korean peninsula have inspired a degree of shock and awe in diplomatic circles.

In April scores have died in a series of attacks and assassinations in Mexico, the Philippines and Nigeria. Catholics at prayer during Mass have been targeted in a number of attacks.

The pope is praying especially for peace in Syria, Nigeria and the Koreas.

Cardinal Gracias, one of the pope’s top advisers, spoke about Francis on the eve of the fifth anniversary of his election.

Rallies were held in cities around the Philippines.