Sympathy for NYC attack victims

MANILA - The Philippine government on Wednesday expressed its sympathies to the families of at least 20 victims of the latest attack in New York City.

"We express our deep sympathies to the families and friends of the innocent victims killed in a truck attack on a New York bike path,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement.

Malacañang issued the statement even as it confirmed that there are no reports of Filipinos injured in the attack.

On Tuesday, a rented pickup truck plowed down a busy bicycle path near the World Trade Center in lower Manhattan in New York City, killing at least eight people and injuring 11 others.

Authorities reported that the pickup truck smashed into a school bus before the driver jumped out and was shot by a police officer.

Reports from international press said the assailant was identified as Sayfullo Saipov, 29, who was in critical condition after being shot in the abdomen.

A handwritten note, which indicates that the attack was carried out by Islamic State group, was allegedly found in the truck.

Andanar said the Philippine Consulate General in New York is currently monitoring the latest developments after the attacks. Members of the Filipino community in New York City were also advised to remain calm and vigilant.

"The Philippine Consulate General in New York is closely monitoring the situation and has advised the members of the Filipino community in the area to remain calm yet vigilant even as there are no reports of Filipinos injured in the truck attack," Andanar said.