Delfin Lorenzana: A Life of Service

Delfin Lorenzana is a retired Philippine Army general who served as Chairman of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) from 2022 to 2024. He was also the 36th Secretary of National Defense from 2016 to 2022.

Lorenzana was born on October 28, 1948, in Midsayap, North Cotabato, Philippines. He graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1973 and served in various positions in the Philippine Army, including as commander of the 4th Infantry Division and the Philippine Army's 1st Scout Ranger Regiment.

In 2016, Lorenzana was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as Secretary of National Defense. He served in this position until 2022, when he was replaced by Jose Faustino Jr.

As Secretary of National Defense, Lorenzana oversaw the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the implementation of the Balikatan exercises with the United States. He also played a key role in the government's campaign against terrorism and insurgency.

In 2022, Lorenzana was appointed as Chairman of the BCDA. In this position, he is responsible for overseeing the conversion of former military bases into commercial and residential areas.

Lorenzana is a recipient of numerous awards and decorations, including the Philippine Legion of Honor, the Distinguished Service Star, and the Gold Cross Medal.