MANILA – The Japanese government is ready to provide “all possible assistance” to the Philippines following the devastation caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, also known as Trami, Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru said on Sunday.
In a message of sympathy to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Ishiba expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and widespread damage from the powerful storm that tore through the country last week.
“I am deeply saddened and worried to learn the news that many precious lives were lost, many people are still missing and serious damages were brought in the vast areas of the Philippines due to the typhoon Kristine,” Ishiba said.
The death toll from the combined effects of Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon has reached 139, with the majority of fatalities still undergoing validation, according to the latest data from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
Offering Japan’s support, Ishiba acknowledged the immense challenges faced by the disaster-prone Philippines. “Japan is ready to provide all possible assistance to the Philippines. Like the Philippines, we fully understand the hardship caused by severe damage of typhoons. Japan always stands with the Philippines in overcoming this time of difficulties,” he said.
The assurance of aid from Japan, a close ally of the Philippines, comes as the Southeast Asian nation grapples with the aftermath of the devastating storms. Authorities continue search and rescue operations while providing relief to affected communities across the archipelago.
Prime Minister Ishiba’s pledge underscores the longstanding cooperation between the two countries, who have collaborated on disaster response and climate change mitigation efforts in the past. As the Philippines rebuilds, the support from Japan is expected to play a crucial role in the recovery process.
