The Philippines on Thursday joined the world in mourning the death of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej as it expressed sympathies to the Thai people.
“On behalf of President Rodrigo Duterte and the Filipino people, we join the rest of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in mourning the passing of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej,” presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family and all those he left behind,” Abella added.
Malacañang said King Bhumibol “was well-loved and held in utmost respect and veneration by the Thai people and by those whose lives he had touched during his lifetime.”
The Palace said “King Bhumibol was not only the world’s longest reigning monarch but also the guiding hand behind the emergence of Thailand as one of the most progressive countries in the whole of Asia.”
“At the same time, we wish his son and heir apparent, Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, all the best as he assumes the duties and responsibilities as Thailand’s new king,” Abella said
“We are certain that as the country’s titular leader and guiding light, he will be able to enhance Thailand’s stature in the region and help the country achieve lasting peace and continued economic and social progress in the years ahead,” he added.