MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines expressed symphathies to France following a fire that devastated the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris early Tuesday (Manila time). "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. The cathedral has also become an icon immortalized by French novelist Victor Hugo through his novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." Pain and sorrow were felt by the millions upon hearing the catastrophic fire of the Notre Dame place of worship," he added. "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.

Source: Philippine Star April 16, 2019 08:20 UTC