Philippines voices concern over Myanmar airstrike deaths, injuries

The Philippines, chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), expressed concern over an airstrike in Myanmar's Rakhine state that caused deaths, injuries and destruction, and stood ready to facilitate discussions within the regional bloc on how best to assist Myanmar.



"The Philippines is closely monitoring developments and expresses concern over the attacks which resulted in destruction, loss of lives and injuries to those affected," Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for ASEAN Affairs Ana Marie Hernando said in an email response on Saturday (Oct 3).



As ASEAN chair, Manila said it remained mindful of the views of all member states and would continue to be guided by the regional bloc's consensus-based approach.