FEM army chief’s son: “Justice for Philippine history”

“My heart’s desire is to continue my father’s goal, planting a seed of truth,” stated Cesar Teofilo N. Echeverria regarding his participation in efforts pushing for the burial of Former President Ferdinand E. Marcos (FEM) at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani (LNMB).

Echeverria was one of those present during a short program in honor of the former president held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers at the center of the LNMB this morning, October 31, 2016.

“We had a very simple ceremony just to have a moment to remember and give our respects and prayers. It was very solemn but organized, nothing attention grabbing,” he explained.

He added that among Marcos supporters and their efforts to voice out support for FEM, “volunteerism is very important. I’m insignificant, but I’m trying my best to be of help.”

Echeverria is the son of General Jaime C. Echeverria, who served the former president as chief of the Philippine army.

He said that his father was connected to FEM due to “circumstances of work and excellence” because at that time, “when you excelled, in any field, you would find yourself close to the president.”

In 1992, Gen. Echeverria had also run for senator under former First Lady Imelda R. Marcos’ party, Kilusang Bagong Lipunan.

These affiliations led to Echeverria’s father being branded as a Marcos loyalist, but he stated, “If they’re referring to serving the country under the clear direction of Marcos’ leadership as being a ‘loyalist,’ then I will not be ashamed.”

“We want justice not just for the Filipino people, but also for Philippine history.”