MANILA, Philippines — Several lawmakers filed a resolution expressing the House of Representatives’ “profound sympathy and sincerest condolences” on the death of former president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino.
The resolution, filed mostly by members of the Liberal Party in the House, states that Aquino “championed good governance reforms, anti-corruption and transparency” during his presidential term from 2010 to 2016.
“During his six-year presidency, President Aquino advocated flagship government programs such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Bottom-up Budgeting Process, and universal health care services that benefitted millions of Filipinos,” the lawmakers said in the resolution.
“President Aquino stood up as the face of the regional confrontation with China over its claim involving West Philippine Sea,” they added.
Further, the lawmakers noted that TIME Magazine previously named Aquino as one of the most influential people in the world in 2013 for steering the economy and taking a stand on controversial issues in his country and the region.
“The 61-year old Aquino will be remembered for his tireless campaign against corruption and poverty, akin to the legacy left by his parents, enduring democracy icons Benigno Simeon Aquino Jr. and Maria Corazon Cojuangco Aquino,” the lawmakers said.
The resolution was filed by Deputy Speaker Mujiv Hataman; Deputy Minority Leader Kit Belmonte; Rep. Edcel Lagman; Rep. Jocelyn S. Limkaichong; Rep. Josephine “Nene” Y. Ramirez – Sato; Rep. Edgar R. Erice; Rep. Isagani Amatong; Rep. Stella Luz S. Quimbo; Rep. Francis Gerald A. Abaya; Rep. Emmanuel A. Billones; Rep. Gabriel H. Bordado Jr.; Rep. Alfonso Umali Jr; and Rep. Amihilda Sangcopan.
The former president was once a part of the lower chamber as representative of the 2nd District of Tarlac. Aquino served for three consecutive terms.
Aquino died in his sleep on Thursday morning. His death certificate indicates that the cause of his death was renal disease secondary to diabetes. He was 61.
Aquino was the only son of democracy icons – the assassinated former Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. and former President Corazon Aquino. He’s survived by sisters Ballsy, Pinky, Viel, and Kris.