MANILA – The Philippine Army has accorded honors to late veteran actor Eddie Garcia at his memorial service at the Heritage Park in Taguig City.

In rites held Friday, soldiers stood vigil and a flag was laid down in front of the urn containing the ashes of Garcia, who passed away after 12 days in a coma after suffering from injuries over an accident while taping for a GMA-7 series.

Before his time in showbiz, Garcia was part of the Philippine Scout troops deployed to Okinawa, Japan during World War 2.

Erwin Garcia, the late actor’s son, explained that his father’s military experience was the reason for his wish that after he dies, his ashes should be scattered at the Manila Bay.

"His deployment ceremony was held in Luneta, that was why he wished his ashes to be scattered in Manila Bay," the Army quoted Erwin Garcia as saying in a statement.

The Philippine Army said Garcia actively supported its projects and participated in shooting competitions.

The Army’s spokesperson, Lt. Col. Ramon P. Zagala, said Garcia’s final wish “speaks of his love of the noble profession of arms, despite his short-lived military career.”