Philippines condoles with Myanmar loss of PM Soe Win

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Sunday expressed sorrow over the recent passing of Myanmar prime minister General Soe Win.

In a statement, Pres. Arroyo said, "The Philippines is saddened to learn of the death of General Soe Win, the Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar."

"In this time of bereavement, the Government and people of the Philippines would like to convey deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of Prime Minister Soe Win," she said.

She added that Prime Minister Soe Win's death comes during a most challenging time when Myanmar has to remain committed to the full implementation of its Roadmap to Democracy.

"The Philippines hopes that despite Prime Minister Soe Win's death, the Government of Myanmar seizes this opportunity to pursue its goals of national unity, reconciliation, and democratization," the president said.