Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo expressed shock and dismay over the shooting incident involving former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe while delivering his speech in Nara on Friday, July 8.
“It is with great shock and dismay that I learned of the shooting of former Prime Minister ABE Shinzo on July (8), 2022 in Nara. I extend my deep sympathy and pray for his early recovery,” Manalo tweeted.
Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko said in response to Manalo’s tweet that Japan will do everything to address the incident.
“Such a despicable act, for whatever reason, is unacceptable, and we condemn it unreservedly. The Government of Japan will take all possible measures to deal with the situation. We continue to pray for the recovery of former PM Abe,” he said.
Former presidential spokesperson Martin Andanar also shared on social media his call for prayers for Abe.
The longest-serving Japanese prime minister was reported dead by Japanese local media hours following the incident.
The 41-year-old suspect was already apprehended by authorities. – Lynroe Francisco-ag
