Negrosanons poured out their sentiments through social media on the death of former Philippine President Benigno Simeon Aquino III.
Former Negros Occidental governor Rafael Coscolluela said, “It is a sad time for any country when a former President is more remembered for his perceived faults than for his many accomplishments.”
With his death, perhaps PNoy will now be honored for the good that he did, for the pride he gave us as Filipinos, for the dignity and decency by which his Presidency became known, Coscolluela added.
He said Aquino had many significant contributions to the nation, like a robust economy, an honest administration, faithful adherence to democratic principles, an active anti-corruption drive even against the big fish, and the defense of Philippine territory by filing and winning the case against China’s claim to the West Philippine Sea.
Aquino earned utmost respect from the international community, he added.
From the perspective of Negrenses, the Negros Island Region had PNoy’s support through Mar Roxas, who was then DILG Secretary.
Former Sugar Regulatory Administrator Regina Martin had PNoy’s ear, especially when the sugar industry faced various challenges. “President Noynoy’s biggest ‘flaw’ was his reluctance to draw attention to himself, to claim credit for his administration’s accomplishments.”
Women’s group leader, Atty. Andrea Lizares Si, on her Facebook account, posted, “Benigno Aquino III was a reluctant Presidential candidate who stepped up when duty called.
“I have no doubt that no matter what mistakes he may have made, he did his best for the country and was never motivated by self-interest or by a lust for power. As far as I know, during PNoy’s term, government was decent, transparent, humane, democratic, what we’d call ‘Makatao, Makabayan, and Makadiyos’,” Si added.
She said Aquino’s passing “reminds us of how much we have lost and how we must give our all if we are to save our country’s soul.”
Frank Carbon, Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry executive officer and a former member of Liberal Party in Bacolod, said the Aquinos are the symbol of democracy in the Philippines.
“The passing of Pres. Noynoy Aquino leaves a huge vacuum in the struggle of Filipinos for a truly democratic society, where the voice of the people is respected and not suppressed. Ninoy, Cory, and Noynoy will be remembered and missed on this aspect,” he said.
United Negros Alliance secretary general and Cadiz Mayor Salvador Escalante described Aquino as a decent, dignified, and respected president and a person who always chose to do what is right.
“His presidency elevated our country into the elite cluster of SEA Nations ripe for investments. He served our country with honor and integrity,” he added.
For the many good things he has done to our country, he deserves our gratitude and recognition. PNoy did his job well. The grateful people of Cadiz mourn his death, and extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved family. His legacy will forever remain in every heart of Filipinos, Escalante said.
Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, also on an FB post, mourned the passing of Aquino.
“I have seen that his service to the Filipino people was honest and full of hope for a good future. Though we had different political persuasions, we were one in our dream for a better future for every Filipino. PNoy will be remembered!”, he added.
The provincial Capitol joined the nation in mourning the passing of the son of the democracy icons. – MML
