ARMM bares sympathy on Aquino’s death; extends condolences

COTABATO CITY – The regional government of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) expressed sympathy over the passing away of an “icon of democracy” on the dawn of August 1. Former President of the Philippines, Corazon Aquino, passed away at the age of 76 after a long battle of colon cancer.

Earlier, in his message, ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan said that the people of the autonomous region are forever grateful to President Aquino for her role in restoring democracy in the country and for being the “Mother of the ARMM.”
President Cory signed into law on August 1, 1989 Republic Act 6734, an act creating the ARMM.

“President Aquino shall forever be an inspiration to every Filipino, especially to the people of ARMM,” he said.

Furthermore, the 2nd Regular Board Meeting of Regional Economic and Development Planning Board (REDPB) has approved today [August 3] a board resolution expressing condolence to the Aquino Family.

The Resolution stated that during President Aquino’s administration, “she manifested sincerity and courage in finding a peaceful political settlement to the Mindanao problem” and “contributed tremendously to the socio-economic development of the ARMM.”

In sympathy, the ARMM regional government observes August 5 a non-working special holiday to make way for Aquino's scheduled burial and 10-day period of national mourning [August 01-10] , as declared by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

“I hope that the Filipino nation will continue to live up to the hopes and dreams of President Cory even with her demise,” Governor Ampatuan, also the Chairman of REDPB, said. (BPI-ARMM)