Pope Francis prays for STS Kristine victims, kills at least 116

Pope Francis offered prayers during his Angelus address on Sunday for Filipinos affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, which has killed at least 116 people and impacted 6.7 million individuals.

The Pope expressed hope that the Lord would support those impacted by the powerful cyclone, which caused unprecedented flooding in parts of Bicol Region and Calabarzon, including Naga City.

Caritas Philippines, the humanitarian arm of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), appealed for donations such as food, water, hygiene kits, and other relief supplies.

Bishops in the hardest-hit regions requested aid as many families remain in evacuation centers, with Legazpi Bishop Joel Baylon attributing the flooding to environmentally destructive activities like quarrying.

Catholic priests and religious sisters were among the most active in providing rescue and relief to storm victims in the region.

The Israel Embassy in the Philippines extended its sympathy to the victims of Kristine and offered prayers for strength and resilience as they navigate through this challenging time.