Philippines condemns London attacks

MANILA, Philippines (Updated 5:20 p.m.) —The Department of Foreign Affairs on Sunday said the Philippines strongly condemns the attacks in London.

In a statement, the DFA said the Philippines considered the attacks “appaling.”

It also extended its deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who perished and those who were injured

“These attacks are evidently calculated to strike terror in hearts of all peace-loving peoples, which deserve the condemnation of the entire international community,” the DFA said.

Philippines has also voiced support for the United Kingdom and its citizens.

“In mourning the loss of innocent lives and praying for the speedy recovery of those who were injured, the Philippines confirms its solidarity with the United Kingdom and her people,” the agency said.

At least six were killed when a van swerved off the road and hit the pedestrians on London Bridge early Sunday, Philippine time. Three men reportedly fled the van with large knifes and attacked people at bars and restaurants at nearby Borough Market.

The attacks were considered by the Metropolitan Police force as “terrorist incidents.”  The attacks left more than 30 victims hurt.

French President Emmanuel Macron said French citizens are among the wounded in London attack. However, the DFA said nationalities of the victims have not yet been released.

“The Philippine Embassy in London is closely monitoring the situation and is in touch with the Filipino community to ascertain their condition,” DFA said.

In March, a knife-wielding man also went on a deadly rampage in the heart of Britain's seat of power, plowing a car into pedestrians on London's Westminster Bridge before stabbing a police officer to death inside the gates of Parliament. The

On May 23, an explosion also struck Ariana Grande’s concert in Manchester arena leaving several people dead. —With reports from Alexis Romero and from the Associated Press