Ex-Defense chief Fortunato Abat dies at 92

Former Defense Secretary Fortunato Abat died on Wednesday at the age of 92, his family said in a statement.

Aside from leading the Department of National Defense, he also served as commanding general of the Philippine Army for five years — the longest in the Army's history.

Prior to his first stint at the DND as undersecretary during the Cory Aquino administration, Abat was ambassador to the People's Republic of China.

It was also under Cory Aquino that he was appointed deputy director general of the National Security Council.

During the Ramos administration, Abat was tapped to serve as chief government negotiator. It was under Ramos that he was appointed DND chief.

During the term of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Abat was appointed head of the John Hay - Poro Point Development Corporation in his native La Union.

He finally served as Chairman of the Military Service Board during the term of President Benigno Aquino III.

Abat is survived by his wife, Corazon, and his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His remains will lie in state at Loyola Commonwealth and will be interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. —KBK, GMA News