United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Thursday night in Washington, D.C.) conveyed his sympathy and deepest condolences to the Filipino people over the death of former President Benigno “Noynoy" Aquino III whom he described as America’s “valued friend and partner.”
“He was a valued friend and partner to the United States, and he will long be remembered for serving his country with integrity and selfless dedication,” Biden said in a statement released by the White House.
The US president highlighted Aquino's “remarkable legacy” during his presidency from 2010 to 2016 specifically in the areas of the economy, advancement of peace, and the rule of law.
“President Aquino’s steadfast commitment to advancing peace, upholding the rule of law, and driving economic growth for all Filipinos, while taking bold steps to promote the rules-based international order, leaves a remarkable legacy at home and abroad that will endure for years to come,” the US president said.
The top US official added that he greatly valued their time working together with the former Philippine president. Biden was vice president of the United States throughout Aquino's six-year term in office.
“I greatly valued our time working together and I extend my heartfelt sympathies to his family and to all who will mourn his absence,” Biden said.
In April 2014, then US President Barrack Obama arrived in Manila for a two-day state visit and was hosted by Aquino in Malacañang.
It was in that visit when Obama declared the United States’ “ironclad” commitment to defend the Philippines amid the increasing tension in the South China Sea or the West Philippine Sea.