A state funeral was held in the capital city of Santiago to mourn the loss of former Chilean President Sebastian Pinera, who tragically died in a helicopter crash. The ceremony took place at the country's former Congress, where President Gabriel Boric expressed his condolences and highlighted Pinera's role as a leader in the transition to democracy.

Sebastian Pinera, aged 74, passed away on Tuesday, prompting state funeral services that began on Wednesday with a private viewing before being opened to the public. On Friday, a somber funeral mass was held at a cathedral in Santiago, as a military band in red conical hats played solemn tunes. Pinera's coffin, draped in the Chilean flag, was escorted by guards on horseback.

Later, in a private family ceremony, Pinera will be laid to rest, attended by his widow, four children, and grandchildren. Pinera, a conservative billionaire, served as President from 2010 to 2014, overseeing a period of robust economic growth but also encountering protests.

President Boric, who was a student protest leader during Pinera's first term, acknowledged their political differences but emphasized the ability of the two leaders to find common ground. They had even spoken the day before Pinera's untimely demise to discuss the recent deadly wildfires in central Chile, which claimed the lives of 131 people.

Throughout the day, large crowds gathered in Santiago to pay their respects to the former president. Emotional tributes poured in for Pinera, not only for his time in office but also for the tragic circumstances of his death.

Pinera is also remembered for his role in the daring rescue of 33 miners trapped beneath the Atacama desert. Some of the rescued miners were present at the funeral, including Juan Carlos Aguilar, who recalled the impact of hearing the president's words of reassurance during their ordeal.

Pinera's second term, from 2018 to 2022, was marked by massive protests against inequality, which often turned violent. These demonstrations ultimately led to promises of drafting a new constitution. Pinera was also involved in the country's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While Pinera faced criticism for his business dealings and alleged human rights violations during his time in office, members of the church have called on all Chileans to come together and remember the former president.

The state funeral of Sebastian Pinera served as a poignant reminder of his contributions to Chilean society, his role in the country's transition to democracy, and his involvement in critical moments like the rescue of the trapped miners. As Chile mourns his passing, the nation stands united in honoring the legacy of a man who played a significant part in its history.