The church bells tolled to the familiar tune of “Bayan Ko” as the ashes of former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III were carried out of the Church of Gesú in the Ateneo de Manila University on June 26.
For minutes, the bells rang unchallenged, save from the sounds of continuous camera clicks and occasional reminders from organizers to practice physical distancing. Then came the applause, as friends and supporters — many clad in yellow — made their way outside to bid the 15th Philippine president (2010-2016) one last farewell.
Aquino, at 61, died of renal failure secondary to diabetes on June 24. He was laid to rest at Manila Memorial Park next to his parents, martyred opposition senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and former president Corazon “Cory” Aquino.
