In a recent session of the Philippine Senate, the senators adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 10, honoring former Defense Secretary and current Bases Conversion and Development Authority Chairperson Delfin Lorenzana for his exceptional contributions to national defense and security, specifically his expertise in diverse fields such as national defense, special operations, foreign affairs, public diplomacy, veterans’ affairs, and strategic leadership.
The resolution specifically sought congressional approval for the esteemed Chairman—or Secretary Lorenzana, as he is still fondly called— to receive the prestigious United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Medal from the United States government.
Established in 1994, the USSOCOM medal is an honor reserved for select individuals “for their outstanding contribution to, and support of, special operations around the world during war and peacetime operations.”
The 1987 Constitution stipulates, in Section 8, Article IX-B, that: “No elective or appointive public officer or employee shall receive additional, double, or indirect compensation, unless specifically authorized by law, nor accept without the consent of the Congress, any present, emolument, office, or title of any kind from any foreign government.”
Senator Villanueva, the resolution’s sponsor, extolled Chairman Lorenzana’s remarkable 35-year military career and his illustrious roles, including as Commander of infantry units, Secretary of National Defense, and his current position at the BCDA.
Cosponsor Senator Dela Rosa expressed his pride as a fellow alumnus at the Philippine Military Academy and commended Chairman Lorenzana’s selfless service. He highlighted Chairman Lorenzana’s crucial role at the Office of Veterans Affairs in Washington, D.C. before being appointed the 36th Secretary of National Defense by former President Rodrigo Duterte. Senator Dela Rosa praised Chairman Lorenzana’s unwavering commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines, even amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senators Win Gatchalian, Pia Cayetano, Robin Padilla, and Bong Go joined in expressing their congratulations and admiration for Chairman Lorenzana. They emphasized his vital role in the Philippine Defense Ecozone and his relentless pursuit of self-reliance in local armaments production. Senator Go particularly underscored Chairman Lorenzana’s dedication, recounting his decision to return to government service after retiring from military service and eventually residing and working in the United States.
The senators’ statements underscored Chairman Lorenzana’s exceptional leadership not only during his military service but also in various civilian capacities. I have had several personal encounters with Secretary Lorenzan, who remains to this day a humble and beloved public servant. I just love this man. Congratulations, Sir!
