'Military should enhance disaster response skills'

MANILA, Philippines - Outgoing Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales called on the military yesterday to enhance its disaster response skills.

Speaking during his farewell visit to Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Gonzales said soldiers must be prepared to rescue or assist people in times of calamity.

“The traditional mission of the Armed Forces in defending the motherland has been given an additional task,” he said.

“While politicians are busy debating, it is important to remember that each time there is a disaster, our people would expect the helping hand of the Armed Forces.

“I want to enjoin you to be prepared, to keep being there, to improve our skills so we can cut the hours of waiting of our people when we are in trying times.”

Gonzales, who also heads the National Disaster Coordinating Council, said the military should improve its calamity preparedness instead of engaging in politics.

“Do not meddle with the political confusion,” he said.

“What you should do is to understand the needs of our countrymen and be there all the time.

“I pray that the Armed Forces would remain united and faithful to their duties so they can respond to the needs of our people.”

In an interview after the testimonial review in his honor, Gonzales said the next defense secretary should prioritize measures promoting disaster readiness.

“There are two incoming typhoons so disaster preparedness is very important nowadays,” he said.

Gonzales thanked the military for supporting him during his seven-month stint as defense secretary.

“I will never forget the experience,” he said.

“My stint allowed me to see the real conditions of our troops. I know the AFP can stand alone to continue its mission.”

In his speech, acting AFP chief Lt. Gen. Nestor Ochoa said Gonzales is a “consistent enabler of people,” a “fervent peace worker” and a “social reformer.”

Gonzales, concurrently national security adviser, assumed as defense secretary last November after Gilberto Teodoro Jr. resigned to run for president.