AW159 Anti-Submarine attack helicopter fires a dummy torpedo targeting a possible enemy submarine during the Navy Capabality Demonstration witnessed by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr. , Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and National Defense Officer in-Charge Senior Carlito Galvez Jr. in the vicinity of San Antonio Zambales Friday morning. Photo: House of Representatives
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 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 on-going 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 our nation’s defense forces, responsible for protecting our maritime borders and ensuring the security of our 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 our 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.
