Castro reasserted Cuba’s dignity, self-worth – Malacañang

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang yesterday offered its condolences to the family of former Cuban president Fidel Castro and the people of Cuba as it praised the man who “reasserted his nation’s dignity and self-worth.”

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said Castro, who passed  away at 90, was a revolutionary who stood up to the West and capitalism. 

“As it extols socialism, Cuba is one of the few societies that remain untouched by commercialism. As his nation’s father, Mr. Castro focused on health, education and literacy,” Andanar said in a statement sent via Viber yesterday.

“His achievements in social development, such as establishing universal health care and providing free education, became models for many developing nations with limited fiscal resources,” he said.

“The passing of former president Castro will surely be felt by the peoples of Cuba and the world.  We are one with the family of Mr. Castro, the Cuban government and the Cuban nation during this period of deep mourning.”