Former President and now Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has sent her condolences to the Japanese people who are still suffering from the twin tragedies of a massive earthquake and tsunami last March 11.

In her letter dated March 21 to Japan Prime Minister Naoto Kan, Mrs. Arroyo said the strength of character displayed by Japan government and its people is laudable following the Magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunami that hit the nation.

"In this tragic test of your great nation and your admirable leadership, we are inspired by Your Excellency's unceasing efforts to save lives and contain looming threats your people, your country, and the environment," said Mrs. Arroyo in her one-page letter.    

"We are one with the world in extolling the unbowed spirit of your government and your people rising above the vast expanse of devastation, pain and sorrow," she added.

Mrs. Arroyo said the "long-standing ties between our countries assume greater significance in the shadow of the grim tragedy that struck your nation two weeks ago."

"We have all watched in shock and awe at the devastating wrath of fortuitous nature, even as we admired the readiness and resolve of your government and the people of Japan in getting citizens to safety and preventing even more casualties as whole cities crumbled under the assault of quake and tsunami," said Mrs. Arroyo.

The former President joined the Filipinos in extending sincere sympathies to the Japanese government and the loved ones of the victims.

"In the face of this heroic struggle of the Japanese, I stand with the Filipino people in grieving with your nation for every tear shed and every life lost. And we join you in rebuilding devastated communities and lives under the eternally rising sun lighting the way toward recovery and resurgence," she said.