Defense Undersecretary for finance, munitions, installation and materiel Fernando Manalo said they are waiting for the Philippine Navy to submit the "decision package" before they could start the bidding process.
This refers to recommended and alternative ways to undertake a proposed project as well as money and time involved with the recommended means of accomplishing the project.
"For frigates, we are waiting for the 'decision package' from the Navy so that we can start the bidding process," he added.
Once this is completed, Manalo said the DND will have to wait for the approval of the Chief Executive on the above-mentioned modernization program.
(After which) we can request the Dept. of Budget Management to issue multi-year obligational authority," the DND official stressed.
Manalo earlier said the option to acquire second-hand frigates, to boost up the numbers and capabilities of PN, has been waived.
This, because evaluation studies found out that acquiring these vessels will be more costly in the long run.
"The PN found out that it will be more expensive to maintain second hand vessel(s) than buying a new one," he added.
With this conclusion, the Italian-made "Maestrale" frigates, are no longer in the running for possible acquisition by the
"It's no longer being evaluated," Manalo stressed.
The "Maestrale" was earlier touted by the DND as the next ships to be acquired for the PN due to its credible missile and anti-submarine capabilities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=506633
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