MANILA, Philippines - Bro. Eddie Villanueva on Thursday said the late Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Angelo Reyes "sacrificed" his life to awaken the country to military corruption.

Villanueva, leader of the Jesus is Lord (JIL) Movement and a former candidate for the presidency, was seen at the Ascencion Chapels paying his last respects to the late official.

"He has to offer a great sacrifice just to wake up our people and be serious in affecting genuine reforms in our society,” he said.

"I sincerely believe he is a good man and his selfless, dedicated service to our country, to me, is exemplary," he said.

He said he believes Reyes sacrificed his life to wake the country and expose shady deals, and that he was a victim of the payola system in the military.

He said it was said that Reyes was subjected to "trial by publicity."

Villanueva got to know Reyes when he was a guest on his TV show several times, and said they spent hours talking about important issues.

"Nakita ko iyong prinsipyo niya, nagta-tally sa prinsipyo ko," he said.

He believes Reyes should be honored by the people.

Villanueva also believes that what the former AFP chief did was "honorable," and that his soul is now with the Lord. Report from Jasmin Romero, ABS-CBN News