MANILA, Philippines - Pope Francis lost his papal cap as he disembarked from his plane upon arrival in the Philippines on Thursday.
Just seconds after emerging out of the plane, a sudden gust of wind blew off his skullcap.
The pope grabbed futilely for it but he did not appear bothered as he smiled and waved before descending the stairs from the plane.
The first pontiff to visit this large Asian Catholic nation in 20 years, Pope Francis received a festive welcome for his five-day state and apostolic visit.
Church bells tolled across the country while thousands of enthusiastic Filipinos flock the streets just to see the pope during his first motorcade here.
The pontiff, in turn, matched the crowds' warm welcome with smiles and waves as he tirelessly stood up on his pope mobile. -with the Associated Press