Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday extended the Philippines' deepest condolences to Nepal following the deadly flash floods that struck Nepal's northern border area with China's Tibet region. In a post on X, Marcos expressed sympathy to families and loved ones of those who died in the disaster. "The Philippines extends its deepest condolences to our friends in Nepal and to all those affected by the deadly flash flood yesterday," Marcos said. "Our deepest sympathies go out to those who lost family, loved ones and friends. Please accept our most heartfelt prayers for strength in this difficult time."
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reported that the Philippine Embassy in New Delhi is actively coordinating with Nepalese authorities to verify reports concerning one Filipino reported missing following the catastrophic flash flood and mudslide along the Nepal-Tibet border. Castro mentioned that the government is still working to ascertain the identity of the missing Filipino national. "The Honorary Consul is verifying with the Nepal authorities, including status of tourist or worker and identity," Castro said.
A massive wall of mud, rock, and ice that collapsed into a Himalayan river set off torrents of water and debris, devastating communities along the Nepal-China border. More than 160 people in Nepal were reported dead while hundreds remained missing as of Thursday. Rescue teams have been deployed to search for survivors and assist those affected by the deadly flash floods.
Nepalese authorities initially considered an earthquake as a potential trigger for the disaster. However, experts and satellite imagery suggested that the catastrophe may have been caused by an ice-and-rock avalanche following the collapse of part of a Himalayan glacier. Reports indicate that the resulting debris entered the Lhende River, triggering the deadly flash floods. The disaster also impacted a major route connecting Kathmandu and Lhasa, which is frequented by tourists, trekkers, and pilgrims traveling toward Tibet.
