Army to get more weapons from US Navy before year ends – official

December 14, 2019

The Philippine Army is expected to receive from the United States more equipment before the end of the year.

This as delegates from US Navy visited the Army headquarters in Taguig City on Friday.

Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, Philippine Army spokesman, said Commander of Army Support Command Maj. Gen. Byron Calimag, on behalf of Army Commanding General, received the delegates of Navy International Programs Office (NIPO) led by its Director, Rear Adm. Francis D. Morley.

"NIPO and PA’s cooperation is directed towards enhancing the war capabilities of the Filipino forces particularly in countering terrorism through the additional equipment and trainings," he said.

He noted that NIPO provided the Army some pieces of equipment, such as unmanned aircraft system, night vision devices, and communication equipment.

"Before the year ends, the PA will also get small arms weapons, ammunition, individual first aid kits, and night vision devices as well as future trainings in using the new equipment," Zagala added.

"The undertaking will also support the Army’s International Defense and Security Engagement as part of the command’s Defense Mission," he said.

During the meeting, Zagala said Morley recognized the activation of the Army Aviation Regiment "as a strategic approach against threats posed by terrorism". 

Calimag, on the other hand, expressed his gratitude and the command’s proposed plan of conducting a Joint Visual Inspection for the TC12 Beach Craft and Whiskey Helicopter in 2020, he said.

“Strengthening our relationship with other military counterparts is critical in boosting our capabilities and further capacitate our soldiers in addressing threats and safeguarding the land,” he added. Robina Asido/DMS