MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday signed a condolence book for the late South African President Nelson Mandela.
The signing was held at the South African embassy in Makati City. It was witnessed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario.
“May your life truly well lived continue to shine as the exemplar for all who strive to make this a better world,†the President wrote in the condolence book.
The President was welcomed by South African Ambassador to the Philippines Agnes Nyamande-Pitso upon arrival at the embassy.
Mandela passed away on December 5 at the age of 95. A state funeral for the global democracy icon will be held in South Africa on December 15, which is expected to be attended by leaders from around the globe.
On Tuesday, the Embassy of South Africa holds a remembrance ceremony for Mandela at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.
The embassy has also made available a book of condolences that the public can sign starting Tuesday until Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the RCBC Plaza in Makati City.