MANILA, Oct. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine government on Thursday extended condolences to the Thais and the family of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away after years of illness.
"On behalf of President Rodrigo Duterte and the Filipino people, we join the rest of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in mourning the passing of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej," said Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella.
He said the late King was not only the world's longest-reigning monarch but also the guiding hand behind the emergence of Thailand as one of the most progressive countries in the whole of Asia.
At the same time, Abella said the Duterte administration wishes Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn "all the best" as he assumes the duties and responsibilities as Thailand's new king
He said the Philippines is certain that Prince Vajiralongkorn, the heir apparent, will be able to enhance Thailand's stature in the region and help the country achieve lasting peace and continued economic and social progress in the years ahead.
The Bureau of the Royal Household announced that the 88-year-old monarch died on Thursday at Siriraj hospital where he had been diagnosed with critical ailments since the last several years.
