NAVY DEMONSTRATION – The AW159 Anti-Submarine attack helicopter fires a dummy torpedo targeting a possible enemy submarine, during the Navy Capability Demonstration witnessed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and National Defense Officer-in-Charge Senior Undersecretary Carlito Galvez Jr. Friday morning in the vicinity of San Antonio, Zambales. Photo by VER NOVENO
SPEAKER: HOUSE VOWS TO PUSH AFP’S MODERNIZATION
SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday reiterated the commitment of the House of Representatives to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in achieving the goals of its modernization program.
The Speaker accompanied President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in witnessing the demonstration of the capabilities of the Philippine Navy in the waters off San Antonio, Zambales, on board BRP Davao del Sur (LD602).
Among others, the demonstration included the firing of Mistral 3 Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM), chaff decoy deployment, dummy torpedo deployment, and speed run of Fast Attack Interdiction crafts of the Philippine Navy. The firing of the Mistral 3 did not push through though because of problems with the target drone.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to support the continuing modernization program of the AFP, to ensure it has the resources and expertise it needs to protect our people and defend our nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“The House of Representatives will work closely with the administration of President Marcos to achieve the objectives of the AFP Modernization Program,” he added.
The first phase of the AFP modernization program or Horizon 1 was implemented from 2013 to 2017, Horizon 2 is from 2018 to 2022, while Horizon 3 is slated for implementation from 2023 to 2028. The AFP has updated its military acquisition plan in line with its ongoing modernization program and submitted it to President Marcos. Speaker Romualdez said ensuring the modernization of the Philippine Navy, in particular, is critical as it plays a vital part in the nation’s defense forces, responsible for protecting the country’s maritime borders and ensuring the security of its territorial waters.
Following the demonstration, Speaker Romualdez expressed confidence that with improved capabilities the Philippine Navy is now in a better position to meet the challenges and threats to the country.
“I commend the Philippine Navy for its hard work and dedication. I was also impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the Navy’s personnel, who are clearly committed to protecting our country,” Speaker Romualdez said.
He likewise thanked the Navy for inviting him to witness the demonstration.
“It was a privilege to see firsthand the progress that the Philippine Navy has made, and I am confident that they will continue to be a valuable asset to our nation,” the Speaker said.
