Pope Francis has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Filipino people over the death of former President Fidel V. Ramos.
The message of the pontiff was forwarded by the office of the Apostolic Nuncio to the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines on Tuesday, August 9.
The letter addressed to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr is as follows:
"Upon learning of the death of former President Fidel V. Ramos, I extend to you and to the people of the Philippines heartfelt condolences and the assurances of my prayers. Mindful of the late president's years of service to the nation and his efforts in fostering the values of democracy, peace, and the rule of law, I commend his soul to the mercy of the Almighty God. Upon President Ramos' family and all who mourn his passing, I invoke the divine blessings of consolation and peace."
The letter was signed by Msgr. Alessio Deriu, Secretary of the Apostolic Nunciature.
Ramos, who died last July 31, was laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.