Xi expresses sympathy in Manila after typhoon toll

President Xi Jinping sent a message of sympathy to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in response to a typhoon that caused devastating floods and landslides in the central and southern parts of the country.

In Sunday’s message, Xi said he was shocked to learn of the severe losses and damage caused by the typhoon, and China stands ready to provide assistance to the best of its ability to the Philippines.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people, and on his own behalf, Xi expressed deep condolences over the deaths and expressed sincere sympathy to the injured and bereaved families.

The president said he believes those affected by the disaster, led by Duterte and the Philippine government, can overcome the difficulties and rebuild their homes.

The death toll from the landslides and floods caused by the storm on Saturday was 167, and 110 are still missing, Xinhua news agency reported, citing official figures.