Clinton offers condolences for typhoon damage in RP

(philstar.com) Updated October 20, 2010

WASHINGTON (Xinhua) - US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton offered Tuesday her condolences for the damage and loss of life caused by Typhoon Juan on the northern Philippine island of Luzon, saying the United States will provide additional aid as needed.

"Our embassy in Manila has offered immediate disaster relief assistance, and we are working closely with Philippine authorities to offer additional assistance as needed," Clinton said in a statement.

Juan is the strongest typhoon to hit the Philippines in the last four years, claiming at least 10 lives and damaging P1.5 billion ($34.7 million) worth of rice and corn crops in northern Philippines, local officials said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Luzon and all Filipinos affected by this tragedy," Clinton said.