DND asks AFP to submit plan for Marcos burial

MANILA, Philippines — Department of National Defense (DND) recently ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to submit their implementing plant for the burial of late former President Ferdinand Marcos, who is set to be buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

 

In a memorandum dated August 7, DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana asked AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya to conduct the necessary preparations to facilitate the coordination of all agencies concerned for the ceremonial and security requirements. The directive is in compliance with the verbal order of President Rodrigo Duterte to implement his election promise to have the remains of Marcos interred at the national heroes’ cemetery.

 

Lorenzana also asked the AFP to communicate with the Marcoses while undertaking the planning and preparations.

 

“Coordinate closely with the Marcos family regarding the date of internment and the transport of the late former President's remains from Ilocos Norte to the Libingan ng mga Bayani,” the memorandum penned by Lorenzana read.

 

DND added that since the Libingan ng mga Bayani is under the supervision and administration of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, the latter “shall designate the focal person for this activity who shall be the overall overseer of the event.”

 

On Sunday, Duterte approved the burial of Marcos at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani arguing that the latter served as president and soldier. The late president has been kept at the Marcos mausoleum for 23 years.

 

DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said Marcos is qualified to be buried at the national heroes' cemetery, a report from Interaksyon said.

 

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