Former President Fidel V. Ramos wearing the SAF black beret. (File photo by JOAN BONDOC / Philippine Daily Inquirer)
Updated @ 10: 32 p.m., Sunday, July 31, 2022
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) mourned the death of former President Fidel Valdez Ramos, who died on Sunday at the age of 94.
In a statement, the PNP said the nation lost a great leader.
“He shall be remembered for his valuable contribution into improving the lives of the Filipinos,” said the PNP.
“More than being a military leader and a government official, he served as a good example to humanity through his incomparable wisdom and deeds,” the PNP added.
The AFP also mourned Ramos’ passing, noting Ramos’ dedication to the country serving in the government in various capacities – the chief of the Philippine Constabulary from 1972 to 1986, the chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines from 1986 to 1988, and the secretary of the Department of National Defense from 1988 to 1991.
The AFP said that it would render the traditional military funeral services as the final salute to the departed former commander-in-chief.
Flags in all military installations will also be raised at half-mast.
“Our countrymen will always remember FVR’s positive outlook and peace advocacy. It was during his Presidency when the final peace accord was signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF),” said the AFP in a statement.
“We shall honor his passion and exemplary commitment to public service, and continue to carry on his aspiration for a just and lasting peace in our country,” it added.
Ramos was the 12th president of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998.
He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1950, and earned a master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois in 1951.
Ramos is also remembered as the founder of the PNP Special Action Force (SAF). The police commando unit was founded on May 16, 1983.
Ramos also founded the Philippine Army’s Special Forces Regiment in the 1960s.
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