Chinese President Hu Jintao sent a message of condolence on Friday to Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo over the heavy casualties and property loss caused by a massive landslide in the country.

In the message, Hu, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, offered sincere sympathies to President Arroyo, the Philippine government and the relatives of the victims.

Hundreds of villagers were feared buried alive by the landslide triggered by a minor earthquake and heavy rainfall in St. Bernard, southern Leyte in south-central Philippines on Friday.

At least 300 households were swept away in a matter of minutes.
 
(Xinhua News Agency February 18, 2006)