Manila Bulletin
Philippines
National
A true GOAT! DND, AFP bid adieu to ex-military chief Rodolfo Biazon
Philippines
National
A true GOAT! DND, AFP bid adieu to ex-military chief Rodolfo Biazon
A true GOAT! DND, AFP bid adieu to ex-military chief Rodolfo Biazon
Published Jun 12, 2023 08:01 am
The Department of National Defense (DND) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) paid tribute to former military chief and senator Rodolfo Biazon who passed away on Monday June 12, at the age of 88.
*Former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Rodolfo Blazon (Photo courtesy of Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Blazon)
* The day of his death coincided with the 125th commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day. Biazon's illustrious career spanned his active service in the military as an officer in the Philippine Marine Corps, and later entering public service as a member of the House of Representatives and the Senate. He entered the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in 1957 and graduated four years later as the class “goat.” A PMA goat is a cadet who graduates at the bottom of the rankings. He then pursued a career as a Marine. Biazon’s perseverance and dedication to serve the people and the country eventually brought him at the top of the military leadership, enough to make him a contender as a G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) in the organization. He became the AFP Chief of Staff in 1991, earning him the privilege of becoming the first military chief from the rank of the Marines. Prior to this, he also served as the AFP Vice Chief of Staff, Commanding General of AFP NCR Defense Command, and Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps. Biazon also became a senator from 1992 to 1995, and from 1998 to 2010; and as representative of the lone district of Muntinlupa City from 2010 to 2016. DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said Biazon “embodied patriotism, integrity, and commitment to the protection of the country's freedom and its democratic institutions.” “Throughout his decades-long service to the Filipino nation, Sen. Biazon embodied patriotism, integrity, and commitment to the protection of the country's freedom and its democratic institutions,” DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said. “Sen. Biazon embodied patriotism, integrity, and commitment to the protection of the country's freedom and its democratic institutions. Sen. Biazon leaves a legacy worthy of emulation by current and future generations of Filipinos,” he added. Meanwhile, Col. Medel Aguilar, AFP spokesperson, said Biazon “played a pivotal role in defending the country’s democracy and upholding the integrity of our armed forces.” “His commitment to public service extended into his political career, serving as a senator who championed key legislations that advocated for the welfare of our countrymen. His leadership and integrity will continue to inspire future generations of servicemen and public servants,” Aguilar added. In July 2022, Biazon was diagnosed with lung cancer and underwent treatment, according to his son, incumbent Muntinlupa City Mayor Rozzano Rufino "Ruffy" Biazon. The elder Biazon then caught pneumonia twice this year, and the second instance was far worse “which had further weakened his lungs.” The AFP will provide appropriate military honors to the late General Biazon in recognition of his legacy and sacrifices as a soldier and head of the military.