MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines expressed symphathies to France following a fire that devastated the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris early Tuesday (Manila time).
Malacañang said it was deeply "saddened and bothered" by the fire that hit the centuries-old landmark.
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"Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of France as well as in solidarity with the rest of the world for this heartbreaking incident. We wish the French nation all the best as they undertake efforts to rebuild this great monument in Paris restored to its majestic sight," presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Tuesday.
Panelo noted that the cathedral serves as a symbol of Catholicism, having housed several historical artifacts.
The cathedral has also become an icon immortalized by French novelist Victor Hugo through his novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame."
"Thousands of various races have at one time or another stood either by themselves or with their families or friends in front of this historic cathedral and marvel at its architectural grandeur," Panelo said.
"Their sojourn there left beautiful memories engraved in their hearts and recorded in photographs. Pain and sorrow were felt by the millions upon hearing the catastrophic fire of the Notre Dame place of worship," he added.
French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to rebuild the cathedral described as the soul of the nation and expressed relief that "the worst had been avoided" in a blaze that had at one point threatened the entire edifice.
Macron canceled a planned national policy speech on recent "Yellow Vest" protests and instead headed to the scene, where he vowed the cathedral would be reborn.
"We will rebuild Notre-Dame because it is what the French expect," he said, describing Notre Dame as "the epicentre of our life" and the cathedral of "all the French", whether religious or not. — Patricia Lourdes Viray with AFP