General in May siege promoted

WASHINGTON DC — President Arroyo swore in on Tuesday newly promoted Maj. Gen. Delfin Lorenzana, who defended Malacañang during the May Day riots in 2001.

It was the first time a military general was sworn into rank overseas and at no less than Blair House, the United States’ official guest house for visiting dignitaries.

Lorenzana, military attaché to Washington for the past nine months, was also awarded the Presidential Legion of Honor aside from being referred to as "my hero" by Mrs. Arroyo.

As military attaché, he has been on top of negotiations for the delivery of 20 UH-1H helicopters within six months, as promised by US officials on Monday.

An additional 10 UH-1H will also be delivered to provide spare parts for the 20 choppers.

"The Americans say they are retiring 700 to 1,000 Hueys this year, so I hope we can get more choppers by the time I retire in October 2004," Lorenzana said.

He has been in command of several key units, including the light armored brigade that defended Malacañang from supporters of jailed President Joseph Estrada who attempted to storm the presidential palace, and the Army’s special operations command.

Lorenzana was sworn in before the President left for New York City to receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Fordham University. – Jose Katigbak