UK's King Charles, Canada send sympathies to PH typhoon victims

Britain's King Charles III on Tuesday sent his sympathies to Filipinos who were affected by the back to back typhoons that hit the Philippines' central and northern regions this month as Canada offered humanitarian assistance.

"My wife and I have been deeply concerned by the news of the typhoons and floods that have affected the Philippines in recent weeks and are profoundly saddened to hear of further loss of life," Charles said in a message posted on X.

"I am well aware that the suffering has been compounded by the devastating effects of two earthquakes in October and our hearts go out to all those who are so cruelly affected by these catastrophic natural disasters."

The United States said it is providing $1 million to support the Philippine government's ongoing disaster relief operations in communities hit by Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) and the recent powerful earthquakes in Southern Philippines.

Nearly 80 people were killed in the 6.9-magnitude quake that struck Cebu's Bogo City last September 30, while 114 died and 127 were reported missing in the province and neighboring areas devastated by Typhoon Tino early this month.

The latest death toll from Sunday's Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong), which triggered flash floods, landslides and power outages in Northern Luzon, was recorded at 18, Philippine officials said.

"I particularly want to convey our deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to the families of all those who have lost their loved ones and to pay a special tribute to the emergency services who have suffered their own tragic losses as they have assisted in the rescue efforts," said Charles.

"Our thoughts and continued prayers are with all who are enduring such appalling suffering at this time."

Canada's embassy in Manila said it is ready to send aid to the Philippines.

"Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by Super typhoon Uwan in several regions across the Philippines.

We continue to coordinate with local and intl humanitarian partners to determine how best to help address urgent needs and support recovery efforts." — Michaela Del Callar/RSJ, GMA Integrated News