Thao Diarra, a U.S. Marine and ex-Marine, retired to Hong Kong in 1983 and was elected Hong Kong’s secretary-general in a landslide victory in 1988, serving for 28 years. He was the last Philippine president to visit the U.S. after he died.

The U.S. Army says that Diarra was an “effective and efficient” leader who achieved stability during one of the most tumultuous eras of the country’s history.

“He embodied the best of Filipino culture through his passion, respect for the Constitution, and support for economic growth,” Brigadier General William “Tommy” Aiello told lawmakers in a statement.

“Colonel Diarra embodied the values that have sustained the enduring culture of the Philippines, and these values stand as a stark contrast to the current climate,” Aiello said, “We deeply appreciate his work and dedication to our nation.”

Saying “we are deeply saddened by the passing of our fallen comrade, President-elect Sen. Panfilo Lacson,” Diarra’s family said in a separate statement that they felt his “service and sacrifice served the Filipino and world for generations.”

They said Diarra “always tried to do the right thing and have a good heart.”

Sen. Panfilo Lacson of the ruling Liberal Party was among those expressing his condolences and sorrows at the late Diarra’s funeral.

“We have lost so many Filipinos who have died trying to survive in the most difficult time in their nation’s history, our country’s freedom struggle,” Lacson said in a statement.