Former APF chief, Gen. Lisandro Abadia (Photo courtesy of AFP)
MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) extended its condolences to the family and friends of its former chief, Gen. Lisandro Abadia, who passed away Sunday.
"General Abadia served as the CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff AFP) in the early 90s and has paved the way for the professionalization of the military and the return of meritocracy in its promotion system. He also led the AFP Campaign Plan 'Lambat Bitag' that significantly decreased the strength of the communist terrorist group," AFP spokesperson Army Col. Ramon Zagala said in a statement Monday.
Abadia, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1962, was appointed as AFP chief by former president Corazon Aquino in 1991 and held the post until 1994 under the administration of then President Fidel V. Ramos.
Zagala said the military will provide "appropriate military honors" to the former AFP chief in recognition of his legacy and sacrifices as a soldier.
"Again, we send our deep condolences and sympathies to his family," he added.
The Department of National Defense also joined the nation in mourning the passing of Abadia.
"Having served as the AFP Chief of Staff from 1991 to 1994, General Abadia was instrumental in paving the way for a more comprehensive approach in the AFP's counterinsurgency operations through the implementation of Oplan Lambat Bitag. His leadership, especially during a pivotal period in our country’s recent history, inspired and propelled the military towards its continued professionalization that we continue to witness to this day," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement.
He also hopes that the family and friends of Abadia will find comfort and solace "during this difficult time". (PNA)
