Former President Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino dies at age 61
MANILA – The only son of then Opposition leader Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. and former homemaker-turned President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino, former President Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino III was declared dead on arrival at Capitol Medical Center in Quezon City this morning.
Over in Malacañang, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said asked the Filipino people for prayers for the late president. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque added they condole with the family of the (former) president over his untimely demise.
"We condole with the family of the president over his untimely demise. We are grateful for his contribution and services to the country. We ask the people to offer a prayer for the eternal repose of the soul of the former Chief Executive. Rest in peace, Mr. President," he said during the midday briefing.
Philippine Vice President Leni Gerona Robredo expressed sadness and grief over the passing of former President Noynoy Aquino.
“He always brought with him a copy of the Constitution in his pocket. How, in one of his State of the Nation Addresses, he stated as long as we are united, we will continue to value the saying ‘The Filipino is worth dying for, the Filipino is worth living for but may I add, the Filipino is worth fighting for.’”
She said the President Aquino will be remembered for his kindness and toughness, “a man of integrity and honor, a man who always put the welfare of the people front and center.”
Various media reports citing close relatives and associates said the former Congressman, Senator and President Benigno Aquino III, passed away at age 61-year-old.
President Aquino, popularly known as “Noynoy,” served as the country’s 15th chief executive from 2010 to 2016. He was born on February 8,1960.
The immediate family has still to release an official statement about the former President’s demise.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said flags at Philippine embassies and consulates-general will be at half-mast and condolence books will be provided at all foreign service posts.
Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana credited the late chief executive for strengthening the country defense and security capabilities in support of national development.
“During his term, Republic Act No. 10349 was enacted to revitalize our AFP modernization program. As Command-In-Chief, he recognized the importance of equipping our military to better respond to the evolving domestic and regional security challenges,” said Secretary Lorenzana. (Melo M. Acuña)
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