(UPDATE) Children too short to see the pope left in tears

MANILA, Philippines - Some members of a youth dance group were left crying after performing to welcome the pope.

Eight-year-old Gwen Bernardino said she was so disappointed that they could not see Francis, because they were behind taller dancers when he passed by.

"We were so happy earlier because we thought he would come near us, but that did not happen," she said, her voice quavering as she wiped her tears. "We kept on shouting but he was already gone. I was hoping he could kiss me, and I could hug him even just for a second."

She was among 1,200 young people from Catholic schools and parishes who danced at the arrival ceremony.

"My message to the pope is I love him very much even if I did not get the chance to see him in person," she said.