The Philippine Embassy in Pretoria opened its doors for the public to sign the condolence book for former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos from 2 to 5 August 2022. This is in line with Proclamation No. 33 signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. declaring a period of national mourning from 31 July to 9 August 2022 to honor the legacy of the late President Ramos.
South African Deputy Foreign Minister Candith Mashengo Dlamini signs the condolence book for the late Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos after being welcomed by Philippine Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja.
Deputy Foreign Minister Candith Mashengo Dlamini visited the Embassy to personally offer her condolences. The full transcript of her message reads as follows:
"On behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, I wish to convey our sincere condolences on the passing of His Excellency Fidel V. Ramos, the former President of the Republic of the Philippines.
Former President Ramos was a strong supporter of democracy, people empowerment and the protection of overseas Filipinos. He made a remarkable contribution to the Philippines.
Former President Ramos shall be remembered. We convey our condolences to his family, his relatives, the Government and the people of the Republic of the Philippines.
May perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in peace."
Several heads and representatives of diplomatic missions accredited to South Africa, as well as members of the Filipino community expressed their sympathies in writing.
The Embassy also invited Filipinos in the southern African region to the online condolence book opened by DFA.
Director for Southeast Asia Ray Medhurst of the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation signs the condolence book. Mr. Alfredo Santos and Mr. Jun Honrado, Filipinos based in South Africa, write their messages of sympathy for the loved ones of the late President Ramos.
“The widespread outpouring of sympathy and condolences is indicative of the global community’s respect for the statesmanship and leadership qualities of the late President Ramos,” Philippine Ambassador to South Africa Noralyn Jubaira Baja said.
President Ramos’ administration from 1992 to 1998 is credited for strengthening the country’s democratic foundations and opening the Philippine economy to foreign investment through deregulation and liberalization policies.
