The Chinese Embassy in Manila and the Chinese businessmen community in the Philippines are mourning the passing of former President Fidel V. Ramos Jr.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian said on Monday, Aug. 1, that he was "deeply saddened to hear" about Ramos, who died on Sunday due to complications from Covid-19.
He said Ramos was "well known in China for his friendship and contribution to the bilateral relationship between" China and the Philippines.
"He was one of the first to propose the establishment of 'Asian Forum' in 1998 which incubated the Boao Forum for Asia in 2001. As former Chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia he played an indispensable role in the development of the Forum," he added.
On the other hand, the President of the Chinese Enterprises of the Philippine Association (CEPA), on behalf of the group, expressed his condolences to Ramos who was "always friendly" and solidified the bilateral relations of the two countries.
During his stint at the Boao Forum, he actively participated and flew to China every year even during his eighties, CEPA president Deng Jun said.
"He has formed deep friendships with the Chinese and he will always be remembered for his wisdom and sense of humor," he added.
The Chinese Embassy said it is "deeply grieved by the loss of an old friend," while CEPA said it feels "sorry about losing such a great leader but are very honored to have experienced his statesmanship."
"We will never forget his contributions and efforts to the China and Philippines friendship," CEPA added—a sentiment also expressed by Huang.