The message of condolences reads, in part:
“Please accept my sincere condolences in the light of the tragedy surrounding the sinking of the Thomas Aquinas passenger ferry.
Please convey my sympathy to the families and friends of the victims, and best wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured.”
The Thomas Aquinas passenger ferry collided with a cargo ship on the night of August 17. More than 600 passengers were on board. According to preliminary figures, at least 28 people have been killed and about 210 are still missing.