Pope Francis has offered prayers for Filipinos affected by Tropical Depression Agaton (Megi) that hit parts of Visayas and Mindanao during the Holy Week.
The letter, signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, was sent to Archbishop Charles Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines.
“Having been informed of the recent loss of life and destruction caused by Typhoon Megi, His Holiness Pope Francis wishes to express his solidarity with all those suffering in the wake of the storm,” Parolin’s letter read.
“He also offers the assurance of prayers for the dead, injured, and displaced as well as those engaged in recovery efforts. As a sign of his spiritual closeness, His Holiness willingly invokes upon all the Filipino people God’s blessings of strength and peace,” it further read.
Based on the latest National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) figures, the death toll from Typhoon Depression Agaton has climbed to 167.
At least 562,548 families or 1,939,514 individuals in Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Davao, Soccsksargen, Caraga, and Bangsamoro have been affected.
READ MORE: Agaton death toll rises to 167
