Foreign envoys assure assistance for Paeng survivors

MUST SAVE EVERYONE | Residents evacuate with their livestock and a few belongings in Barangay Bagong Silangan, Quezon City, one of the low-lying areas where floodwaters rose quickly on Saturday morning as Paeng drew nearer to Metro Manila. After Mindanao on Friday, it was the turn of Luzon and the Visayas to be pummeled by one of the year’s worst storms. (File photo by LYN RILLON / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — The international community has sent their thoughts and assured assistance for Filipinos affected by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng.

The European Union in the Philippines and several ambassadors of other nations, in separate posts on social media, have condoled with the families of those who perished amidst the storm.

“Our prayers and sympathy as we extend our solidarity with the Filipinos coping with the effects of typhoon,” EU said in a post on Twitter.

“Heartbreaking to see the devastating effects of #PaengPH. I offer my thoughts & prayers to all who are affected, especially friends & loved ones of the deceased. Our team is monitoring developments closely & stands ready to work with the (Philippine flag) government to assist. Please stay safe,” US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said.

British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils also expressed sadness over the number of reported deaths due to the storm.

“All of @ukinphilippines and I are thinking of those affected by this tragedy. We are monitoring the situation closely and stand ready to support,” Beaufils’ post read.

Japanese Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko said he was praying for the safety of those affected by Paeng, adding that “it’s heartbreaking to know the devastation Paeng has already caused, especially to the families who lost their loved ones.”

“I extend my sincerest sympathies. My heart goes out to all of you,” he added.

Australian Ambassador HK Yu PSM also offered her country’s sympathy to the Philippines.

“We stand with our friends at this difficult time and are ready to provide assistance as required,” she added.

Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian, in a Facebook post, wrote: “My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and all communities affected by the onslaught of typhoon Paeng. We in the Chinese embassy are ready to extend our support and coordinate with the Philippine government to respond to this tragedy.” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a separate post, also gave assurance that his country stands ready to provide assistance.

“To those who have lost loved ones, and to those who know someone who went missing or was injured: Canadians are keeping you in our thoughts,” said Trudeau on Twitter.

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