President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. paid his final respects on Wednesday night to former Prime Minister Cesar E.A. Virata, honoring the late statesman for his decade-spanning contributions to public administration and economic policy under the administration of the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.
In a tribute posted on social media, the Chief Executive praised Virata’s principled approach to governance and public service.
“I will remember him not only for the many years he gave to the nation, but for the quiet dignity, discipline and sense of duty with which he lived his life,” Marcos said.
“To the entire Virata family, the First Lady and I offer our deepest sympathies. Thank you for a lifetime of service, Prime Minister. Rest in peace,” he added.
Virata, who served as Prime Minister of the Philippines from 1981 to 1986 and concurrently as Minister of Finance from 1970 to 1986, passed away on October 2 at the age of 95. Prior to his passing, he served as corporate vice chairman and director of the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC).