By Alec Go
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday, July 8, extended condolences to the Japanese government and its people over the passing of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe following a tragic shooting incident.
Rest in peace, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
The longest-serving Japanese prime minister, 67, passed away on Friday afternoon, July 8, after he was shot from behind while delivering his speech in Nara.
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— PTVph (@PTVph) July 8, 2022
In a statement, the DFA expressed gratitude to the late prime minister’s contributions in improving the relationship between Japan and the Philippines.
“It is with profound sadness that we learn of the passing of former PM ABE Shinzo. We express our deepest condolences to the Japanese government and people on his tragic death,” it stated.
“We send our most heartfelt sympathy to Mme Akie Abe and their family. We pray for their comfort in this most difficult time,” it added.
(1/3) It is with profound sadness that we learn of the passing of former PM ABE Shinzo. We express our deepest condolences to the Japanese government and people on his tragic death. We send our most heartfelt sympathy to Mme Akie Abe and their family.
— DFA Philippines (@DFAPHL) July 8, 2022
The DFA said the former prime minister was “greatly admired by many Filipinos.”
“We thank him for his key role in the strengthening of Philippines-Japan relations and for establishing a very deep bond of friendship with our country. Mr. Abe will be very much missed and always remembered,” it stated.
Earlier, DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo said he was dismayed and shocked over the shooting incident.
Abe, 67, was shot from behind while delivering a speech in a campaign rally in Nara, Japan on July 8. The 41-year-old suspect who lives in the area was arrested, according to NHK.
His death, first reported by Japan local media, was confirmed by doctors of Nara Medical University.
