Retired military general Abadia dies

Retired AFP Gen. Lisandro Abadia. Image from Radyo Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines — Retired Gen. Lisandro Abadia, former chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, has passed away, the military said Monday. He was 83.

Abadia served in the AFP for 36 years, starting his military career in 1958 and retiring in 1994. He served as chief of staff from 1991 under President Corazon Aquino, until 1994 under President Fidel Ramos.

The AFP extended its sympathies to the family and friends of Abadia.

AFP spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala said Abadia’s leadership has paved the way for the professionalization of the military and the return of meritocracy in its promotion system.

Abadia also led the AFP Campaign Plan “Lambat Bitag” that saw the decrease of strength of the communist rebels.

Abadia was accused by the Ombudsman of amassing unexplained wealth during his term as AFP chief.

Abadia, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1962, will be accorded appropriate military honors in recognition of his legacy and sacrifices as a soldier and head of the military.

EDV