Philippines toll brings message of sympathy

President Xi Jinping has extended a message of sympathy to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in response to a typhoon that triggered devastating floods and landslides in the central and southern parts of the nation.

In the message on April 17, Xi said he was shocked to learn of the grave casualties and damage caused by the typhoon, and that China stands ready to provide assistance to the best of its ability to the Philippines.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people, and in his own name, Xi expressed deep condolences over the deaths and extended sincere sympathies to the injured and the bereaved families.

The president said he believes that people 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 flooding spawned by the storm reached 167 on April 16.