CentCom honors former chief with volleys of fire

CEBU, Philippines - Volleys of fire rang at the Central Command yesterday in honor of the late former President Aquino.

As part of military protocol, the 105 mm Howitzer started firing at 10 a.m. yesterday. Eight shots were first fired after learning of Aquino’s death.

Major Wilson Feria, acting spokesperson of CentCom, said that from 10 a.m., the cannon was fired again releasing one blank round in a 30-minute interval and fired another eight blank round at 5 p.m.

The flag was also raised in half-mast starting yesterday. Feria said that the military’s mourning for a former commander in chief lasts for a month.

As for the playing of the Taps or the most recognized of all military bugle calls, Feria said that this would be stalled until Cory’s interment. Though Taps is usually played at funerals, wreath-laying or memorial services, the Central Command plays it daily at 10 p.m. to mark the end of the day.

Further, Feria expressed his high regards for the integrity and courage of Aquino who left a legacy of uniting the Armed Forces of the Philippines because of her strong leadership despite seven coup attempts during her regime.

Meanwhile, Supt. Patrocinio Comendador said “she was the symbol of democracy in the most critical time of our nation. In a way, she has influenced my career as a police officer because it was during her presidency that many policemen and soldiers fought fiercely against communism and, worst, against each other. Her death should remind us how fragile democracy is and that we should strive with all our might to preserve it.” — Niña G. Sumacot/MEEV   (THE FREEMAN)