We have to recognize the concern and efforts of the Aquino administration for the completion of 37 projects costing P9.2B for AFP Modernization. This was disclosed by DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin who also said that 14 more projects under the AFP Modernization Program of P6.2B is expected to be finished this year. These include the arrival of assault rifles of Philippine Army and Marines, UHIH for the Philippine Air Force, close combat optics and explosives ordnance disposal equipment.
These equipments are urgently needed more especially now that Muslim separatists and breakaway groups like the Bangasamoro Freedom Fighters are active and engaging Philippines troops in Maguindanao. Also new equipment previously acquired has been crucial to rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts during natural disasters like typhoons and which are expected to come till the end of the year.
Any administration is always under fire for it cannot please everybody for doing the job, and what is good for the nation. Under the present national and AFP leaderships, our military has not only been refurbished, but strengthened to answer the needs of the times.
Today, soldiers have more equipment at their disposal and have access to many life-saving innovations, improvements, programs to help them. With more guns, bullets and other sophisticated weaponry, the chances of survival of our troops in the field will ensure a high percentage for lesser casualties on the side of the government. — Nico Arnaldo, Talisay, Cebu