China willing to offer help to storm-hit Philippines: FM spokesperson

BEIJING -- China is willing to offer assistance to the Philippines, which suffered heavy casualties and damage from tropical storm Tembin, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said Tuesday.

Tropical storm Tembin started lashing parts of Mindanao in the southern Philippines last Friday, triggering massive flash flooding and mudslides. According to reports, the storm has left more than 300 people dead or missing.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent condolences to his Philippine counterpart Rodrigo Duterte, Hua told a daily news briefing, adding China is willing to offer assistance to the Philippines within its capacity to help with disaster relief.

Hua expressed belief that under the leadership of the Philippine government, people in disaster-hit areas will overcome difficulties and rebuild their homes, Hua said.