PHL extends sympathies to victims of Oklahoma tornado

The Philippines on Wednesday extended sympathies to the victims of the tornado that hit Oklahoma City on Monday, which left at least 24 dead.

"The Filipino people join the world in grief in the wake of a devastating tornado that struck Oklahoma City and its environs... We are deeply saddened by the loss of young lives in this catastrophe, many of whom perished in a school where they sought refuge," deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a statement she read at a press conference in Malacañang.

On Tuesday, a powerful tornado tore through Oklahoma City, leaving at least 24 killed and 200 others injured.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said there were no reports of Filipino casualties in the disaster, although Philippine Consul General to Chicago Leo Herrera-Lim said the consulate was "having difficulty contacting other Filipinos due to power outages in affected areas."

Valte further said the Philippine government hopes that victims of the disaster, especially the Filipino-American community in the area, will be able to "rebuild their lives and their homes."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with their parents and families in these difficult times. May all the victims of this disaster find solace and strength in the days ahead knowing the world stands steadfast with you," she said.

The Philippine Consulate in Chicago said there are 10,800 Filipinos living in Oklahoma as of 2010. Most of them work in the medical profession, specifically as psychiatrists. — Andreo Calonzo/KBK, GMA News