"It is with deep regret and profound sadness that I learned of the untimely demise of my dear friend, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe," Duterte said in a statement posted on his Facebook page.
"I extend my sincerest condolences to his wife, Madame Akie, and family on this tragedy. I also join the Japanese People in mourning his loss and in condemning the senseless act of violence," he added.
Abe was declared dead hours after he was shot while giving his campaign speech in Nara City, Japan.
For Duterte, Abe was not just the first foreign leader to visit the country after his inauguration but was also the only foreign leader to visit his home in Davao City.
"For this, I will always hold him close to my heart and cherish the moments we have shared together," he said.
“It is my hope that, as we remember his legacy, we will continue to learn and draw from his dedication to duty and remarkable leadership moving forward,” he added
