Noy signs condolence book for Saudi king

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino yesterday signed the book of condolences for Saudi Arabia’s late King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Accompanied by some members of his Cabinet, Aquino went to the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Makati City to pay his final respects to the Saudi king who died last week at age 90.

“The death of King Abdullah marks the passing of an important figure in international and regional affairs. We extend our condolences to the royal family and to the people of Saudi Arabia,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said.

Malacañang also acknowledged the help King Abdullah extended to the Philippines. His receptiveness to the concerns of the Philippine government helped improve the welfare and prospects of Filipino workers in Saudi Arabia.

“In particular, he granted clemency in different instances to Filipinos under trial; reached into his own coffers to assist in the case of Rodelio Celestino Lanuza; and provided migrant workers in Saudi Arabia the opportunity to correct their status,” Valte said.

“It was also during his reign that the Philippines and Saudi Arabia agreed on a Standard Employment Contract, which governs the employment of Filipino domestic workers in Saudi Arabia,” she added.