Military to acquire C-130 planes, ships for disaster relief

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said today that it is acquiring two additional C-130 planes to improve its capability to take part in emergency and disaster relief efforts.

"We are in the process of acquiring two more C-130s. As you very well know, we only have three C-130s. In terms of strategic lift, C-130s are very important," said AFP chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista.

The existing C-130 planes of the Air Force figured heavily in the transport of relief goods for victims of typhoon Haiyan, locally named "Yolanda," and equipment needed by government troops involved in the ongoing rehabilitation efforts.

Bautista, however, could not say how much the Philippine government would spend for the two C-130s it is planning to acquire.

Ideally, he said the Philippine Air Force should have at least nine C-130s.

The AFP is also acquiring two Strategic Sealift Vessels for the Philippine Navy. Bautista said the ships are vital in the transport of supplies needed by soldiers and civilians who are affected by natural calamities.