Speaker Lord Allan Velasco on Thursday expressed sadness upon learning of the passing of former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.
‘’The entire House of Representatives would like to extend its heartfelt sympathies and condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time. The nation mourns with you and celebrates the life of a man who dedicated his service to the country as a three-term Representative of the Second District of Tarlac in Congress, Senator, and President of the Republic of the Philippines,’’ Velasco said.
Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero, 1-PACMAN Party-list Representative, today joined the entire nation in mourning the passing of former President Noynoy Aquino.
‘’His contribution to our nation will surely be remembered by generations to come. Paalam, Pangulong Noynoy (Goodbye, President Noynoy),’’ he said.
Davao del Norte (1st district) Representative Pantaleon D. Alvarez sent his ‘’sincerest condolences to President Aquino III’s loved ones.’’
In a statement, Alvarez said:
‘’Benigno Aquino III is probably the only Senator who didn’t aspire for the Presidency, and actually meant it. Despite his reservations, he nonetheless answered the country’s call for him to serve. And by a twist of fate, he won.
‘’Regardless of one’s political affiliation, we can all agree that what he did was selfless and courageous. Whether or not it was the right decision, we leave that to history.
‘’Five years ago, he stepped down as the most powerful man in the country. Five years later, he’s gone, just like that; a strong reminder to us all that we’re merely transient. When God makes a roll call and our name is called, finished or not finished, we have to pass our paper. And what we do during our impermanent visit to this world, is what we leave behind.
‘’I do not agree with many of President Aquino III’s decisions when he was in office. But I do not doubt his sincerity in wanting what is best for the Philippines. President Aquino III, as with the other Presidents who came before him, did his best to make this country better. The results have been mixed, as history and experience would show. But this should not discourage us.
‘’We learn as we move forward.
‘’Let us pick up where all past Presidents have left off and continue in this endless journey of nation-building for our People. Mindful of our mortality, let us reform the nation and leave it in a better state for the next generation. Hopefully, they will finally catch that ever elusive goal of national greatness we have long aspired for.
‘’It is the least we can do for this special archipelago we call home.
‘’Rest In Peace President Aquino III. And thank you for your service.
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