The Department of Health (DOH) expressed its gratitude to late former president Fidel V. Ramos for his service to the country, particularly for his "dedication" to improve Filipinos' health.
"The Department of Health honors the late former President Fidel Valdez Ramos for all his service to our country and for uplifting the state of health of Filipinos," the DOH said in a statement on Sunday night, July 31.
"President Ramos had a broad vision and dedication towards the health of all Filipinos," it added.
DOH noted that it was during the term of Ramos that that landmark health laws such as the National Blood Services Act of 1994, Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide of 1995, and National Health Insurance Act of 1995 "came into force."
"We thank the former President for laying the groundwork for progress towards universal health care," the state health agency said.
"Maraming salamat po, Pangulong (Thank you, President) FVR. May you rest in peace," it added.
To note, Ramos served as president of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998.