Palace prays for former Japanese PM Abe's full recovery


Malacañang is one with the international community in praying for the speedy recovery of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, who was shot in Nara, Japan, on Friday.

A file photo of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo during his visit to the Philippines for the 31st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on November 13, 2017. (Malacañang photo)

"We are praying that Mr. Shinzo recovers fully," Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles said in her press briefing on July 8.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo has already expressed shock and dismay over the tragedy.

Reports said that Abe is "in critical condition and fighting for his life" after he was shot in broad daylight while delivering a speech in Nara.

Prime Minister Kishida Fumio said in a press conference that Abe was receiving emergency treatment and described the attack as unforgivable.

"This is not a forgivable act," he said.

"We will comprehend the situation and take appropriate measures," he added.

Abe is Japan's longest-serving prime minister, holding office from 2006 to 2007 and again from 2012 to 2020 before he stepped down from the post due to health reasons.

The suspect, a man identified as Tetsuya Yamagami, was arrested and charged with attempted murder. Reports said he used a handmade gun in the attack, but his motive remained unclear.