Duterte sends Cayetano to attend Bhumibol’s funeral

Secretary of Foreign Affairs Senator Peter Cayetano. MALACAÑANG PHOTO

BANGKOK — President Rodrigo Duterte has sent Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano to represent the Philippines at the funeral rights for Thailand King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

After more than a year of mourning, Thailand will witness this week the royal cremation of the kingdom’s most revered king.

Thousands of Thai people poured into the streets in this city and the areas around Sanam Luang or the Royal Parade Grounds and the Grand Palace to get a glimpse of the king’s procession.

Cayetano will join the roster of foreign dignitaries from at least 32 countries who will witness the lavish funeral rites.

“Secretary Cayetano was designated by the President to attend the Royal Cremation of the late Thai King,” Foreign Affairs spokesperson Roberspierre Bolivar told INQUIRER.net when asked to confirm Cayetano’s attendance.

Royals attending five-day rites include Queen Sofia of Spain, Queen Maxima from the Netherlands, Prince Akishino and Prince Akishino from Japan, according to a report from The Nation Thailand.