Typhoon-ravaged Philippines is to receive 200,000 U.S. dollars in aid from the Chinese government, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang on Tuesday.

Qin said China is deeply concerned about the widespread damage caused by typhoon Durian. The Red Cross Society of China will also donate 50,000 U.S. dollars to its Philippine counterpart.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing have sent messages to Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alberto Romulo, expressing sympathy and condolences.

Typhoon Durian hit the Philippines on Dec. 1. The confirmed death toll stands at 425 with 599 still missing.

Source: Xinhua