Pope Francis extended prayers and solidarity to Filipinos affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, which caused widespread devastation across Luzon, including the Calabarzon and Bicol regions. During his Angelus address on Sunday, October 27, the Pope expressed his closeness to the Philippines, saying, “I am close to the population of the Philippines, struck by a powerful cyclone. May the Lord support that people, so full of faith.”
The storm has claimed 116 lives, with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) confirming 10 fatalities, while others are still under validation. Kristine left 39 people missing, 109 injured, and displaced nearly one million individuals across 10,147 barangays.
The damage estimates from Kristine include P2.5 billion in agriculture and P1.5 billion in infrastructure, prompting over 160 cities and municipalities to declare a state of calamity.
The Israel Embassy in the Philippines also offered condolences and support to those affected, stating, “We extend our deepest sympathies to the families who have lost loved ones… We stand with you in spirit and prayer as you navigate through this challenging time.”