Senate adopts reso expressing condolences on Shinzo Abe’s passing

The Senate of the Philippines on Wednesday adopted a resolution expressing the chamber's sympathy and condolences on the death of "a true ally," former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Abe was assassinated on July 8 during a campaign event in Kashihara, Japan.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri sponsored proposed Senate Resolution 10 on the floor, taking into consideration proposed Senate Resolutions 28 and 60.

"Under his able leadership, Japan and the Philippines were able to foster a relationship that was based on cooperation and mutual trust, with Japan becoming the Philippines' second largest trading partner after the United States by the year 2007, and its top trading partner by the year 2015," Zubiri said in his resolution.

During Abe's visit to the country in 2017, the Senate chief noted, Japan pledged ¥1 trillion in assistance over the following five years, including Official Development Assistance and private sector investments.

Abe also led the establishment of a Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation to monitor the implementation of cooperation projects, Zubiri added.

The lawmaker also acknowledged other projects and initiatives that were awarded to the Philippines during Abe's term, such as a $5.2-million grant for high-speed boats and counter-terrorism equipment, a P23.5-billion loan for COVID-19 response, ¥1 trillion in assistance for the government's "Build, Build, Build" program, and aid for the completion of massive infrastructure projects such as the Metro Manila Subway project.

"The Philippines joins the family of Mr. Abe, the people of Japan, and the rest of the world in grieving the death of a beloved son and husband, and a respected public servant," the resolution read.

"The passing away of a true ally, a great statesman, and an outstanding world leader whose invaluable support and contribution to the Philippines will always be remembered and whose service and legacy will never be forgotten, will be mourned by a grateful Filipino nation," it added.

Senators Joel Villanueva, Bong Revilla, Ronald dela Rosa, Loren Legarda, JV Ejercito, Pia Cayetano and Mark Villar also expressed their appreciation for Abe and his work. — BM, GMA News