FORMER President Fidel V. Ramos was laid to rest yesterday at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.
A state burial was accorded Ramos, the 12th president who served the country from 1992 to 1998.
President Marcos led Filipinos in paying respects. Seated beside former First Lady Amelita “Ming” Ramos during the burial ceremony, he witnessed the lowering of the urn containing Ramos’ ashes to the ground and was among those who offered flowers during the inurnment ceremony.
Armed Forces chief Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro served as the military host during the military honors for Ramos. Major service commanders and other senior military officers were also present during the event.
A battalion sized-contingent initially led departure honors for Ramos at the Heritage Park also in Taguig, followed by a funeral procession to the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
Another battalion-sized contingent led the funeral march inside the cemetery, followed by the 21-gun salute.
The Philippine flag that was used to cover the casket that carried Ramos’ urn during the funeral procession from the Heroes Memorial Gate to the grave site was handed by Marcos to Mrs. Ramos.
The casket was surrounded by white flowers. The grave site is at Section A of the Libingan ng mga Bayani, which is reserved for presidents.
Ramos was buried between Elpidio Quirino and Ferdinand Marcos, the current President’s father. Other presidents buried at the Libingan are Carlos Garcia and Diosdado Macapagal, father of former President and now Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
Mrs. Ramos thanked everyone for their support to Ramos and their family, and acknowledged those who sent condolences.
She recalled their family life from the time that Ramos was still an active soldier, and said they managed to raise their kids despite Ramos’ long periods of absence while he was a military man. She said adjustments were difficult but they were able to survive then.
“Kaya maraming salamat sa tulong niyo at sabi niya, `Kaya natin ito.’ Maraming salamat (Thank you for all your help and like what he always said, `We can do it.’ Thank you),” she said.
Ramos had a long military career before he became president. He died on July 31 at the age of 94.
Pope Francis has sent his condolences to the Ramos family and to Filipinos.
In a statement sent by the Apostolic Nunciature in the Philippines to the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), the Pope condoled and offered his prayers for the late president.
“Upon learning of the death of former president Fidel V. Ramos, I extend to you (President Marcos Jr.) and to the people of the Philippines heartfelt condolences and the assurance of my prayers,” said the Pontiff.
“Upon President Ramos’ family and all who mourn his passing, I invoke the divine blessings of consolation and peace,” he added.
The Pope underscored the actions and advocacy of Ramos during his years in public service.
“Mindful of the late president’s years of service to the nation and his efforts in fostering the values of democracy, peace, and the rule of law, I commend his soul to the mercy of the Almighty God,” said Pope Francis. — With Gerard Naval
