President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated his commitment to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), emphasizing that the administration fully supports the modernization of the military.
In his speech at the Officer Candidate Training Course graduation at Camp Aguinaldo on Friday, Marcos assured the continued enhancement of equipment and training for the soldiers.
Marcos pledged the continued transformation of the AFP into a world-class military force amid shifting challenges.
“To the members of the AFP, be assured that this administration remains committed to transforming our AFP into a world class force that is a source of national pride and national security,” said Marcos.
“This transformation begins with investing in our people, in their talents, the specialists, the leaders, who will bridge the gap between tradition and innovation," he added.
Previously, the bicameral conference committee reduced the proposed budget for the modernization program from P50 billion to P35 billion, which was then approved by Congress.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Air Force confirmed the arrival of five brand-new Black Hawk helicopters.
According to PAF Spokesperson Col. Maria Consuelo Castillo, this is part of the 32 helicopters purchased under Horizon Two of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.
Currently, the Philippine Air Force has ten Black Hawk helicopters, with the newly received five undergoing technical inspection.
