Manila, Philippines-Lawmakers and other government officials from all political backgrounds paid tribute to former President Benigno ‘Noynoy’ Aquino III, who died on Thursday at the age of 61.

Senators sent their respective condolences to the Aquino family. They reviewed the achievements of the former CEO during his tenure and described him as a “profile of courage, a man of conviction”.

In a tweet, Vice President Leni Robredo praised Aquino for his hard work and dedication.

Enjoy everything you have to do with PNoy. Mabuti siyang kaibigan in tapat na Pangulo. He tried to do what was right, even when it was not popular. Tahimik and walang pagod siyang nagtrabaho para makatulong sa marami. We will miss him. Nakikirama can be called in the family. pic.twitter.com/mqzrPKA6dr

– Leni Robredo (@lenirobredo) June 24, 2021

Former Vice President Jejomar Binay sent his condolences to Aquino’s family.

“Noynoy and I may have had political differences in the last few years of his tenure, but that will not diminish the many years of friendship between our families. My deep condolences to the family. Good luck, Pareng Noy, ”he said.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III said: “Whatever your political camp, when a former president dies, the country mourns.

Senator Ralph Recto praised Aquino for his style of work, preferring “quiet and solid work to flamboyance”.

“He didn’t treat his office like a theater, where he was forced to make big gestures to incite his base or distract them from their mistakes,” Recto said in a statement.

Senator Bong Go said he was with the nation in prayers for the eternal rest of Aquino’s soul and for the strength of his grieving family.

“May the brothers and sisters and loved ones of the late president find comfort in the thought that we are grateful to him for having dedicated his life to the service of the country and our people,” he said.

For Senator Panfilo Lacson, Aquino’s death is “heartbreaking” and added that “it has been a privilege to serve with him”. Lacson also said the former president “does not deserve to be unappreciated.”

“He served his country very well with humility, honor and integrity. Even as president, he always managed to respond quickly to my messages, however flippant and insignificant they are, ”he said.

Being one of Aquino’s “classmates” in Congress from 1998-2008, Senator Imee Marcos said she would cherish the memories she had with the former president while they were first-year lawmakers. .

“Because beyond politics and public acrimony, I knew Noynoy, who was kind and simple. He will be sorely missed, ”she said.

My sincere condolences to the family of former President Benigno C. Aquino III, a “classmate” in Congress from 1998 to 2007. I will always remember our long years together as first-year lawmakers and members of the ‘a small opposition. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/xXKIRA82Y9

– Imee Marcos (@SenImeeMarcos) June 24, 2021

Senator Risa Hontiveros called Aquino a “dear friend and brother”. She recalled how he dedicated his life “to the ideals of democracy and the well-being of Filipinos”. She also offers her deepest condolences to the Aquino family.

“He was a champion of clean and honest governance, which was the key to sustaining remarkable economic growth under his leadership,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine flag at the Senate headquarters in Pasay City, as well as other areas, including Manila and Davao City, is at half mast to honor the former president.

Several local government officials and heads of government departments also paid tribute to the life and works of Aquino.

“Davao’s municipal government is at one with the nation in praying for the eternal rest of the soul of former President Benigno Aquino III. The Philippine flag throughout Davao City will be half-masted until it is buried, ”Davao Mayor Sara Duterte said in a statement.

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso hopes Aquino’s legacy will continue to lead others on the right path.

“As the leader of our nation, we knew him as ‘PNoy.’ He championed good governance reforms that promoted efficiency and reduced opportunities for corruption. The Philippines was cited as the economy fastest growing in Asia during his administration, ”he said.

The Embassy of the United States (US) also extends its deepest condolences to the family of the former President /

On behalf of the United States Embassy, ​​I offer our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of former President Benigno Aquino III at this heartbreaking time. We are saddened by the passing of President Aquino and will always be grateful for our partnership.

– Chargé d’Affaires John Law (@USEmbassyPHDCM) June 24, 2021

Aquino died peacefully in his sleep. His death certificate pronounced him dead at 6.30 am “due to kidney disease secondary to diabetes”. CAA