MANILA, Philippines – The Senate on Wednesday, August 19, held a special mass to honor former senator and presidential uncle Agapito “Butz” Aquino.

Members of Aquino’s family, including his wife Popsy, brother Paul, children, and grandchildren were present. His daughter Roxanne delivered a speech personally thanking the Senate for honoring the memory of her father.

The Senate passed Resolution No. 96, expressing its “profound sympathy and sincere condolences” on the demise of former Senator Aquino.

Senate President Franklin Drilon said it was the first time the chamber held a mass inside the session hall, saying it is a testament of how they “love” Aquino.

“We thank him for his nationalism, honor, and principled leadership,” Drilon said in a speech after the mass.

Drilon also recounted the role of Aquino in the fight against the Martial Law and during the controversial 1991 US bases, where he voted a resounding No.

Drilon said of the former senator: His “was a principled vote” and that “history proved him right.”

Aquino, 76, became a senator from 1997 to 1995. He then became Makati Representative from 1998 to 2007.

His colleagues in the 8^th and 9^th Congress were present – former Senators Nikki Coseteng, Nene Pimentel, Sonny Alvarez, Leticia Ramos-Shahani, Rene Saguisag, Nina Rasul, Senator Tito Sotto, and Muntinlupa Rep. Rodolfo Biazon.

Others present were former senator Jun Magsaysay, Senators Alan Peter Cayetano, Pia Cayetano, Bam Aquino, Loren Legarda, Nancy Binay, and Grace Poe.

The Senate has been flying its flag at half-staff since Aquino died on Monday, August 17. – Rappler.com