Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 24) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it will have to make modifications to the ceremonial tribute for the late president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it assured the public that the honors will still be befitting of a former commander-in-chief.
AFP spokesperson MGEN. Edgard Arevalo said traditionally a carriage will transport the remains or casket of a former president to the place of interment, followed by a 21-gun salute and bugle call until the casket is lowered.
“Ceremonies like that is usually observed but because of the pandemic we may modify and make some adjustments,” Arevalo told CNN Philippines on Thursday.
He did not mention specifically what changes will be made to the ceremony, but he said beginning Friday at 8 a.m. there will be firing of cannons – eight cannons fired in succession, repeated every hour until 5 in the afternoon. On the same day at 10 a.m., all military units will assemble for the reading of the official notice on the death of ex-president Aquino.
On the day of the funeral or inurnment, there will be a 21-gun salute from the time the remains will be moved until they reach the place of interment. Another firing of cannons in military camps will follow.
Arevalo said they have already issued the 21-gun salute directive to military bases. He added they will also consider streaming the ceremony online for the public to watch.
“What is important is for our people to know that we are going to extend all the necessary honors befitting of a former president and commander-in-chief,” the AFP spokesman said.
The former president will be laid to rest at the Manila Memorial Park on Saturday beside his parents.
