Remembering FVR: Tribute from Manila Rotarians

PD Celso Abastillas

One Saturday morning we had a golf tournament with FVR as our guest of honor. Unfortunately, metro Manila and Calabarzon was being buffeted by a typhoon. We dilly dallied, thinking that the tournament was postponed. So we came late. But lo and behold despite the rain and the wind, there was FVR teeing off at whole number 7. We felt ashamed of ourselves, seeing the president at senior age at that, arriving at the golf course on time. That's the FVR brand of management!

PSAA Gunter Matschuck

My deepest condolences to the family of President Ramos. Was my president of the Special Forces of the Philippines. As a foreigner, I was privileged to have many personal and social meetings with President Ramos. Some highlights: I congratulated him as first batch when he joined Rotary as General Ramos and he always showed a keen interest in the German Community and as President of the German Club I Knew the big number of my kababayans he knew by name. A specific German Foundation was his special connection and when he won the presidency, German politicians confirmed their support. Chancellor Kohl came for state visit and the 2 statesmen witnessed the signing of many German investment projects among our combined cycle power plant St Rita of the Lopezes many invitations to Malacañang followed in which he always give me a presidential golf ball and I was invited to join him with Team Philippines on a couple of goodwill trips abroad e.g. Prague Vienna He listened to our suggestion to improve the power and infrastructure situation. Although at the peak of his popularity, encouraged by many he did not go for a constitution change and just finished his term.

As retired President, he relaxed followed many socials but unfortunately was not seen in RCM too often. On each German National Day he was present and surprised us with his humorous ideas. Remember the eye glasses without lenses! And the many speeches during which he threw the manuscript from the Roster! What a charismatic leader. RIP my hero!

STAR Rtn. Caloy Serapio

President Fidel V. Ramos, or simply FVR or TABAKO as he was fondly called by colleagues, admirers, supporters and friends was one of the 5 presidents that I was blessed to engage in my political journey. Among the 5, it was FVR who I had the chance to associate with in various capacities.

Politically, as an 'operator' who played a role in his decision to run and eventually win the presidency, I remember joining that meeting in what was known as 'gringo's bunker' in Camp Aguinaldo where he told the group of the conditions for him to seek the highest office in the land. That was when he 'jestingly called me Brother Mike Velarde' because of the question I posed to him. Spiritually, FVR was closed to and very supportive of the same Kapatiran leaders I worked with & who started the 'Pamathalaan (Pamamahala Kasama si Bathala) Governance Philosophy and the Moral Recovery Program. Socially, I operated a foundation during his term that provided among others support for our OFWs in Hongkong. Internationally, I had the privilege in joining him in trips abroad that introduced me to world leaders like Pres. George Bush. When he met the homecoming of the Mt. Everest balangay team expedition, I was also with him and I proudly provided the Bulacan band that honored him with their marching songs for a former president.

The most memorable though were the intimate discussions & inspirational exchanges we had in his office at the RP Peace & Development Foundation as well as during his many book launching events. The warmest occasions were the golf games lunch bantering and after game 'awardings'.

FVR almost catapulted us to becoming an economic tiger but sadly the so called imperatives of the democratic system also overwhelmed him in his last year. From then on, we spiralled downwards. He will be missed. May he be blessed with his just heavenly rewards for being God and the peoples servant. Eternal rest grant unto President Fidel V. Ramos O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him, may he rest in peace, amen.

Dir. Raffy Alunan

Media has been asking for my statement on FVR's passing. Here it is. "I've been dumbstruck from the time I learned the sad news that FVR passed away. I regarded him as my second father as many of my brothers in uniform, particularly the SFRA and SAF, and in the Cabinet did. The time will come when my thoughts will get organized and converted into words that, nonetheless, I fear will never be articulate enough to express profound gratitude for all that he did for "Duty, Honor, Country." FVR was larger than life which was eclectic to say the least, not only during his years in the military and public office but more so after he officially retired. Collecting my thoughts will take time to give him the best possible tribute, as many more (relatives, friends, colleagues) would want to do. Perhaps in a few days. We grieve your loss, Mr. President, and are one with Mrs Ramos and your immediate family (to include your close-in aides and the men and women of RPDEV). May the Force welcome you Home, Sir!"

Rtn. Dong Benedicto

President Ramos facilitated Unity and Team work among all groups in the Nation. Steering the Nation in waters of extremely difficult odds.