MANILA, April 16 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine presidential office expressed solidarity with France on Tuesday after a major fire engulfed the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Speaking for Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, the presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the Philippines is "deeply saddened and bothered by the fire."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of France as well as in solidarity with the rest of the world for this heartbreaking incident. We wish the French nation all the best as they undertake efforts to rebuild this great monument in Paris restored to its majestic sight," Panelo said in a statement.

Panelo said thousands of various races, including Filipinos, have at one time or another stood either by themselves or with their families or friends in front of this historic cathedral and marveled at its architectural grandeur.