Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday sent a message of condolence to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte over the recent crash of a military plane.

In his message, Xi said he was shocked to learn that the military plane crashed when landing, which caused grave casualties.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi expressed condolences to the victims, and offered sympathies to the injured and the bereaved families.

The Philippine authorities have retrieved a black box from the plane, and further investigation is underway. 

(With input from Xinhua)

(Cover: First responders work at the site after a Philippines military plane carrying troops crashed on landing in Patikul, Sulu Province, Philippines, July 4, 2021. /Reuters)