Former president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III passed away on Thursday, just 5 years after he stepped down from office. Noynoy Aquino wasn’t perfect, but his anti-corruption drive helped revive the Philippine economy. We were able to criticize his policies without the fear that the state would come after us.

Sen. Bong Go on PNoy’s death: I sincerely and deeply condole with his family and friends. I join a grateful nation in prayers for the eternal repose of his soul and for the strength of his family in grief.

Sen. Leila de Lima on the demise of former President Noynoy Aquino: “A nation grieves the passing of a great Filipino. Unfortunately, we have now ran out of Aquinos who will deliver us from tyrants. I am sure PNoy will say that this time we have to do it without them. Of course we will, it is just that the fight is more worthwhile with an Aquino by our side and among our ranks.”

PNoy’s anti-corruption drive is remembered for the good, the bad, and his own accountabilities. He dies w/ DAP case pending in prosecution. He was cleared of usurpation in SAF44 because Omb Samuel Martires withdrew, saying presidents can’t be accused of usurping.

“We’re grateful for the former President for his contribution and services to the country, and we ask our people to offer a prayer for the eternal repose of the former Chief Executive,” said Palace spokesperson Harry Roque.

He served as the 15th President of the Philippines from 2010 to 2016. He was the son of democracy icons, former President Corazon Aquino and late opposition Senator Benigno Aquino Jr.

According to Vice Ganda Twitter posts, Today is a sad day as we are all shocked by the untimely death of former President Noynoy Aquino. I am one with every Filipino as we grieve and mourn his unexpected death. My heartfelt condolences to the Aquino Family. Godspeed PNoy and Rest In Peace.

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon on the death of former President Aquino: “I have lost a dear friend and the nation has lost a gentleman who served his country well – with all honesty and sincerity and with the purest of intentions. I am thankful for the opportunity of having worked with PNoy during his Presidency. He meant well and wanted the best for the country and for all of us. We have lost an honest man.”

Malacañang has now lowered its Philippine flags at half-mast, in honor of late former president Benigno Aquino III.

“While the Philippines mourns his loss, we remember fondly his State Visit to Australia in 2012 and the legacy of partnership and bayanihan we shared,” said Australian Ambassador to PH Steve Robinson.

Former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on the death of former president PNoy Aquino: “My family and I join the Filipino people in prayers and sympathy on the passing of former president Benigno Aquino III.”

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