The Armed Forces of the Philippines said Tuesday the death of former Defense chief Angelo Reyes was a big blow to the ongoing congressional investigation on alleged corrupt practices within the military organization.
"This is a big blow to the ongoing investigation where all members of the Armed Forces and the Filipino people quest for truth, in the light of this incident, we hope that the [House of Representatives] and the Senate can expedite these proceedings to ensure immediate reenactment of laws in furtherance of good governance, measures for the whole Armed Forces," said military spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta.
"The Armed Forces of the Philippines, its officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees are shocked with the passing of General Angelo Reyes. We condole with the family of Sir Angie," he added.
Reyes is one of several former military chiefs of staff who allegedly received millions in "pabaon" (send-off money) when they retired, as a former military fund manager, retired Lt. Col. George Rabusa, claimed.
Reyes was a key figure in the EDSA-2 revolt that ousted then President Joseph Estrada and catapulted then Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the presidency in January 2001.
PMA Class of 1966
Reyes was born on March 17, 1945 in San Miguel, Manila. He graduated valedictorian in Cubao High School in 1960. He also graduated 7th from his class at the Philippine Military Academy in 1966.
Among the various posts he held in the military are: Philippine Army commanding general, Southern Command commanding general, Army 5th Infantry Division commanding general, and chief of the AFP Civil Relations Service.
He was named Armed Forces chief by then President Estrada in 1999, and headed the military during the Estrada administration's all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in 2000.
After his retirement in March 2001, Reyes assumed various posts during the Arroyo administration: Secretary of Defense, Energy, Interior and Local Government and Environment.
He is survived by his wife Tessie Reyes and his children Pablo, Angelito, Marc, Carlo and Judd. — with a report from Candice Montenegro/RSJ, GMA News
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