Pope voices concern, prays for 'Sendong' victims

Pope Benedict XVI on Sunday (Vatican time) voiced concern and prayed for victims of tropical storm "Sendong" (Washi) in the Philippines.

 

The Pope spoke from the window of his study overlooking St Peter’s Square, according to a news release from the Vatican's news site.

 

“I want to assure the populations of the southern Philippines, hit by a violent tropical storm, of my closeness. I pray for the victims, mostly children, the homeless and the many missing,” the Pope said,

 

The Vatican noted the tropical storm slammed ashore Mindanao island while people slept late on Friday and early Saturday.

 

As of Monday morning, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said at least 533 were killed while 309 remained missing.

 

However, the Philippine Red Cross said as many as 652 may have already been killed.

 

UK foreign minister sends sympathies to PHL

 

Meanwhile, British Foreign Minister Jeremy Browne on Sunday expressed his condolences to victims of the flooding caused by tropical storm "Sendong" (Washi).

 

In a message posted on the British Embassy in the Philippines website, Browne described the loss of life caused by the flooding as "tragic."

 

"The loss of life caused by flooding in the Philippines is tragic. I visited the Philippines earlier this month and know how keenly this loss will be felt by all its people," he said.

 

"I would like to express my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those affected. My thoughts are with them and the Government of the Philippines as they lead the recovery work,” he added.

 

Earlier, US State Secretary Hillary Clinton also aired her "deepest condolences" for the devastation and loss of life caused by flooding.

 

Clinton also said the US government "stands ready to assist Philippine authorities as they respond to this tragedy."

 

Malacañang welcomed the aid offers but said it will leave it to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to determine what kind of aid will be needed. –KG, GMA News