MANILA: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday paid tribute to the late former United States president Jimmy Carter, recognizing his steadfast commitment to humanitarian causes, peace, justice, and human rights. Carter, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100, was remembered by Marcos as a leader who exemplified the values he championed throughout his life.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos highlighted Carter's dedication to both domestic and international humanitarian efforts. "Jimmy Carter was a humanitarian who practiced what he preached: Houses for the homeless and human rights for the oppressed," Marcos stated in a social media post. He praised Carter as a servant leader whose pursuits were guided by his faith, aiming for peace in war-torn regions and prosperity in struggling societies.

Marcos further emphasized the universal appeal of Carter's values, noting that they are embraced globally, including in the Philippines, as foundational to creating a more compassionate society. "These are universal values he fought for which are embraced by people everywhere, including Filipinos, as the cornerstone of a better, kinder society they deserve to live in," Marcos said.

Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981, was widely respected for his global human rights work, efforts to combat poverty, and peace advocacy. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 in recognition of his humanitarian contributions. In 1999, Carter visited the Philippines as part of the Habitat for Humanity campaign to construct affordable homes, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

Marcos underscored that Carter's influence extended beyond politics, portraying him as a "model of the power to do good with the benefit of public office or bereft of it, driven not by politics nor personal gain, but by pure love to one's fellowmen."