Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 23) — Foreign ambassadors joined the country in mourning the death of Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople, whom they described as a real advocate of Filipino overseas workers' welfare.

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson extended her condolences to the bereaved family of Ople on Tuesday, hours after the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced her death.

"Awarded with the [US Department of State] 2013 Trafficking in Person Heroes Award, Secretary Ople's work to champion the rights of Filipino migrant workers will remain an inspiration," Carlson said.

Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa, in a separate statement, called Ople "a tireless advocate for OFW welfare."

"Her legacy of sincerity and service will forever inspire us. Her absence will be deeply felt," Koshikawa said.

The embassies of Canada and Singapore likewise issued statements, expressing their condolences.

Canada said Ople was "a valuable partner in advancing our two countries' common goals in promoting responsible and ethical recruitment, and protecting migrant workers' rights and welfare."

Singapore, meanwhile, said the embassy was "profoundly saddened" by the passing of Ople.

"A dedicated public servant and champion of OFW rights, Secretary Ople was an invaluable partner in enhancing Singapore-Philippine bilateral labor relations," it said.

Ople died at the age of 61, just a month after the deaths of her two brothers.

She was the first official to head the DMW.

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