Manila: The Japanese government is prepared to offer “all possible assistance” to the Philippines in the wake of the devastation caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, known internationally as Trami. This announcement was made by Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, who expressed his solidarity with the Philippines after the storm wreaked havoc across several regions of the country last week.

According to Philippines News Agency, Prime Minister Ishiba conveyed his condolences to the Philippines and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on October 29. In his message, Ishiba said, “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.” He extended his heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families and offered his sympathy to those affected.

In his commitment to aid, Ishiba emphasized that Japan “fully understands” the challenges faced by
nations like the Philippines, which frequently endure the impacts of typhoons. “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 stated.

The calamity’s toll continues to rise, with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reporting that the combined effects of Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon have resulted in 139 confirmed deaths as of Wednesday. Of these, only 14 have been validated, with casualties recorded in regions including Bicol, Central Luzon, Cordillera, and Northern Mindanao.

The remaining deaths are still undergoing validation, with figures indicating 72 in Calabarzon, 46 in the Bicol Region, five in Central Visayas, and two in the Zamboanga Peninsula.