Arturo G. Cacdac, Jr., Consultant

Arturo G. Cacdac, Jr. is the deputy director general, and deputy chief for administration of the Philippine National Police (PNP). As such, he was the 2nd highest ranking officer of the PNP who retired in 2012. General Cacdac is also the husband of Celia, one of Ocean Sky’s many advisors.

The Cacdac couple has three children and one granddaughter. Although General Cacdac is too busy to come to the monastery, the rest of his family have all attended meditation classes one time or another. The eldest daughter Michella shares: “Even if he has not come to class, my father is the most Buddhist-like in our family, because of his honesty and compassionate character.” General Cacdac said that in working for the national police, he is working for the people. He is totally upright and as such, is in sync with the practice of Buddhism.

Even with his full workload, General Cacdac had sometimes dropped in at ceremonies, and once, during repentance prostrations in the half-day retreat. He also gives members of Ocean Sky family moral support when needed. For example, when Albert and Cindy made their meal offering to the Sangha on their 35th wedding anniversary, he joined the banquet and even sang a song to liven up the program. In the 2012 summer camp, General Cacdac, his wife and granddaughter came to cheer up the kids during the completion ceremony. Realizing the wisdom of the Sangha, he has consulted Shifu and requested for Dharma talks.

His only son Miko said: “My father is actually a kind-hearted person. In 2012, after I encountered a problem but couldn’t find a solution, I decided to join the Chan-7 retreat in Chung Tai. During the retreat, I gained a fresh understanding about the purpose of life, how my family was important to me and how it was willing to take on sacrifices for me. Returning home, I found a new life and everything became brighter. When my father saw this change, he cried for the first time in front of me. He told me that he also wants to visit Chung Tai to experience its magnificence. It was very touching.” General Cacdac has clearly felt the beneficial effect that Buddhism can exert on one’s life.