CL to host several Balikatan 2013 activities

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 5): CL to host several Balikatan 2013 activities

Region 3 is set to play host to a number of activities lined up for Balikatan 2013 or the annual combined exercise of the Philippine and American Armed Forces which officially opens today.

“Around 8,000 soldiers from the two countries are set to participate in the 13-day undertaking in Central Luzon. This is the 4th Balikatan that will focus on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response” said Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) commander Lieutenant General Anthony Alcantara.

“The April 5-17 military event begins with a two-day of academic discussion at the NOLCOM Disaster Response Task Force command post in Camp O’Donnell in Capas town, Tarlac followed by a two-day crisis action planning, one-day mini-exercise, seven-day practical exercises, and a one-day after activity review” Alcantara disclosed.

Practical exercises consist of Engineering Civic Action Program (ENCAP) who will be in-charge in the construction of bridges, school buildings, health clinics, and water tanks; Medical Civic Action Program (MEDCAP); Dental Civic Action Program (DENCAP); Veterinary Civic Action Program (VETCAP); and Community Relations (COMREL) which are tasked to conduct barangay-based trainings on rescue operations and anti-terrorism.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=561365083331