President Rodrigo Duterte’s office thanked former president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III for his service to the Filipino people as it condoled with the nation over the former leader’s death.

“We commiserate and condole with the family and loved ones of former president Benigno Simeon Aquino III as we extend our condolences on his untimely demise,” said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday, June 24, during his regular press briefing.

He began the press conference by offering a moment of silence for Aquino.

“We are grateful to the former president for his contribution and services to the country,” said Roque.

“We ask our people to offer a prayer for the eternal repose of our former chief executive. Rest in peace, Mr. President,” he continued.

Duterte himself has yet to speak publicly about the death of Aquino. He is set to attend a number of ceremonies in Malacañang on Thursday.

Malacañang has yet to say if it will offer to hold a state funeral for Aquino. When Aquino’s mother, former president Corazon Aquino, passed away in 2009, their family declined a state funeral. Then-president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo taped a message to the nation right after hearing the news and declared 10 days of national mourning. – Rappler.com