24 June 2021 – The Department of Foreign Affairs joins the nation in mourning the passing of former President Benigno S. Aquino III During his term as the 15th President of the Philippine Republic, President Aquino elevated the country’s conduct of foreign relations, steered foreign policy towards a principled direction that earned international respect and esteem, and invigorated the foreign service with a collective sense of patriotism, commitment to service, and professionalism. He has left a remarkable legacy on our country’s foreign policy and national history. The Department offers its condolences to the former President’s family and friends, and joins the Filipino people in grieving the loss of a great man, leader and nationalist. END