Pretoria: The South African government joins the international community in expressing its deep sadness following the passing away of Mrs María Corazón Cojuangco-Aquino, former President of the Republic of the Philippines, on 1 August 2009.
In this regard, President Jacob Zuma has on behalf of the government and people of South Africa extended heartfelt condolences to the family, people and government of the Phillipines and views Mrs Auquino's death as "a painful loss to the world".
President Zuma further added that Mrs Aquino "was indeed a great leader who set a shining example of peaceful transition to democracy in her country and her invaluable contribution lives on as her legacy in the Philippines," concluded President Zuma.
As a person, Mrs Aquino inspired people with her humility, courage, ability to overcome personal tragedy and willingness to answer the call of duty to serve.
For more information, contact:
Nomfanelo Kota
Cell: 082 459 3787
Issued by: Department of International Relations and Co-operation
2 August 2009
