By Vanne Elaine Terrazola
Senators paid tribute to philanthropist and SM Group founder Henry Sy, Sr., who passed away on Saturday morning at age 94.
Henry Sy Sr.
Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III said his family sympathizes with the loved ones of the late Sy, who was considered as the country's richest man. The passing of Sy, he said, affects the whole country.
"The sense of loss is not just limited to his immediate family because Mr. Sy has affected the lives of every Filipino with his leadership, vision, humanity, and altruism," Pimentel said in a statement.
"He is a giant and a pillar of Philippine business whose legacy is as immense as it is lasting. We mourn his loss, but we are also extremely thankful for what he has done and contributed to shape no less than our economic landscape," he added.
Sen. Francis Pangilinan, also, expressed praises for Sy, whom he thanked for "believing in the Filipinos and in transforming their lives."
"He is a migrant who defied life's hardships with hard work, self-discipline, and clear vision to succeed," Pangilinan said.
"His businesses have helped provide livelihood to hundreds of thousands of Filipinos and propel the economy into what it is today," he added.
Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito, meanwhile, on Twitter expressed his condolences to Sy's family.
"RIP Henry Sy, Sr. with my deepest sympathies to the family," he tweeted.
"Definitely a mover and a game changer of the Philippine economy," he added.
Sen. Juan Edgardo "Sonny" Angara also condoled with the bereaved family and friends.