Philippines mourns Mandela

This picture taken on August 28, 2007 shows former South African President Nelson Mandela waving to the media as he arrives outside 10 Downing Street, in central London. AFP PHOTO / LEON NEAL

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines joined the rest of the world in mourning the loss of Nelson Mandela, considered a 20th century icon for ending apartheid or the white minority rule in South Africa, consequently uniting his people and inspiring future generations to make this planet “better than we found it”.

“For today, as Nelson Mandela united his people in the spirit of compassion and inclusiveness, so too does he unite the rest of the world,” said President Benigno Aquino III in a statement. “His memory will serve as a durable guide to humanity as we seek to bequeath to future generations a world better than we found it.”,

Mandela, 95, died of a lung illness.

“Today we have lost a man who throughout his life, has served as a potent symbol for honor, peace, courage and magnanimity,” said Senate Presiden Franklin Drilon.

Mandela’s life, he said, was marked by “positive transformation, enabled by his lifelong belief in goodwill and his unmatched determination.”

“From rebel leader to prominent activist, from prisoner to president, Mandela, called “Madiba” by his people, transformed not only himself, but others around him, and the entire nation of South Africa,”  Drilon said.

Senator Loren Legarda described Mandela as a “humble leader.”

“He was a humble leader who have the credit to the people around him,” Legarda said. “He never gave the impression that the leadership was all about him.”

“He was a leader who earned your respect with his presence alone, because even with his power and influence, he remained kindlyn and unassuming.”

Associate Justice Marvic Leonen posted on Twitter that Mandela was an inspiration.

“Nelson Mandela: an inspiration for those who live with the worse of this world and yet maintain faith and fortitude that it can be different,” Leonon said.

Former senator Francis Pangilinan also lauded Mandela as a “source of strength and inspiration” and his “super hero.”

“Thank You Madiba. You were a source of strength and inspiration to us. You taught us to be true. A mortal like no other, my super hero.”

Jim Paredes of the popular 70s music group “The Apo Hiking Society” also tweeted his appreciation for the South African leader.

“A great man passes away. Godspeed Nelson Mandela. You have done your part in raising humanity up the evolutionary leader. A life well played.”

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