Ex-captain Emelio “Chieffy” Caligdong was honored for his countless contributions for the men’s national football team during halftime of the Azkals’ 3-nil shutout of Cambodia at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Friday night.

The 32-year old from the football-crazy town of Barotac Nuevo recently announced his retirement from international play after 10 years of donning the national colours.

During the simple ceremony, the Philippine Football Federation gave him a plaque of appreciation, together with a framed version of his signature number 13 he has worn throughout his career.

There were initial talks of making the match against Cambodia as Chieffy’s retirement game, but Coach Thomas Dooley immediately shot down the idea, saying that the match was too critical for their preparations for the upcoming Asean Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup.

Instead, Dooley suggested a special friendly in January, where the team could play alongside Caligdong one more time after the country’s campaign in the sub-region’s top tournament.

In his 12-year career, the former Philippine Air Force serviceman has played for Union Internacional Manila F.C., Philippine Air Force F.C., and currently plays for Green Archers United F.C. in the United Football League.

Related: Tributes pour for “Chieffy”