Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian. INQUIRER.net file photo / Daniza Fernandez
MANILA, Philippines — Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian has assured the Philippines that China will be always ready to help the country, amid the recent flash flood that killed several individuals in Eastern Visayas and Mindanao.
In a statement on Wednesday, Huang extended his sympathy to the victims of the flash floods last Christmas weekend, which has claimed the lives of at least 25 individuals as of this morning.
READ: Death toll from Christmas weekend rains, floods climbs to 25
“I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the victims of the recent flash floods that struck the Philippines during this Christmas weekend. My heart also goes out to all the bereaved families, may they find peace and courage amidst this difficult time,” he said.
“China will always stand ready to help as good neighbour, relative and partner to the Philippines in times of trouble like this. We wish all those affected could overcome the grief and hardships, regain their strength, and rebuild their home at earliest date,” he added.
Last December 25, at least 3,000 families from different parts of Eastern Visayas and Mindanao were forced to evacuate after a shearline, or the area where warm winds from the south and cold winds from the north converge, caused heavy rains over the said areas.
Just in Eastern Samar’s Jipapad town, over 14,000 individuals were transferred to higher and safer grounds after the non-stop rains caused flooding that reached as high as two-story buildings.
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