A telegram of condolence for the victims of yesterday’s typhoon in the Philippines, which so far has killed 400 people with one hundred reported missing, has been sent today by Benedict XVI to the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, mgr. Fernando Filoni, through the Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. The Pope says “he is deeply grieved at the tragic loss of human lives due to the recent typhoon in the Eastern Philippines” and “assures of his prayer and sympathy all the affected people”, the deceased and their families. In addition he invokes “God’s strength and consolation” for all the injured people. Benedict XVI is also praying for the humanitarian workers and all those who are rescuing the victims of the catastrophe, encouraging them to “persevere in their efforts of providing care and assistance”.” “
