EX-PRESIDENT PNOY DIES

Former President Benigno Aquino III, the 15th head of state, died peacefully in his sleep early Thursday morning, after having been “in and out” of the hospital for more than a year, according to a family announcement.

“It is with profound grief that on behalf of our family, I am confirming that our brother, Benigno ‘Noynoy’ S. Aquino III, died peacefully in his sleep. His death certificate pronounced him dead at 6:30 a.m. due to renal disease secondary to diabetes,” Pinky Aquino-Abellada, Noynoy’s sister, read the family’s official statement at the Heritage Park in Taguig City.

Early Thursday morning snippets broke out that the former president was rushed to Capitol Medical Center in Quezon City. Later, several close associates had confirmed that Aquino had passed away.

Pinky was flanked by her other sisters Ballsy Aquino-Cruz, Victoria Elisa Aquino-Dee, and Kris Aquino when she read the family announcement in which she cited that her brother was a private person who had always preferred not to be given special attention.

“Even before the pandemic, he had been going in and out of the hospital,” she said.

His remains have been cremated and with the urn up for public viewing although details remained sketchy.

“To the 15.2 million who trusted him in 2010 and gave him the biggest tribute that may be given to any Filipino, us sisters will forever thank you,” Pinky added. “Mission accomplished ka, Noy, be happy now with Dad and Mom. We love you and we are so blessed to have had the privilege to have had you as our brother we will miss you forever, ”Pinky said.

No other details have been given on the burial and interment of the late president.

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