Benedict XVI has offered "fervent prayers" for people who were killed, lost and displaced by typhoon Milenyo that struck Bicol region last week with winds of more than 140 kilometres per hour.
Manila (AsiaNews) Benedict XVI has offered "prayers for those who perished and are still missing and those whose properties were destroyed by typhoon Milenyo", which struck the Philippines on 28 September, saying he hoped "relief efforts will be swift and generous" towards the people.
The Pope's message, signed by the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, was sent yesterday to the Nuncio, Mgr Fernando Filoni, who passed it on to the Manila Archbishop, Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales.
Cardinal Bertone wrote: "Having learned with deep sadness of the serious damage inflicted by Typhoon Xungsane/Milenyo in the Philippines, the Holy Father offers fervent prayers for the dead, for those who are still missing, and for all those who have lost their homes. He prays that the relief effort will be swift and generous in its response and that normality may soon be restored."
The message continued: "Entrusting you and your people to the protection of Mary, comforter of the afflicted, Benedict XVI cordially imparts his apostolic blessing as a pledge of strength and peace in the Lord."
Typhoon Milenyo, with winds measuring more than 140 kilometres per hour, slammed Bicol region, destroying everything in its path. Manila Mayor, Lito Atienza, immediately declared a state of natural calamity, a move taken also by the Muntinlupa City Mayor.
The city council approved the decision and allocated 300 million pesos [45,000 dollars] to assist families afflicted by the typhoon. Meanwhile, the United States Agency for International Development has donated 100,000 dollars to the national Red Cross.