Acquisition of combat helicopters, modern equipment to increase AFP capability even during disasters -- W. Visayas PAF chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 28): Acquisition of combat helicopters, modern equipment to increase AFP capability even during disasters -- W. Visayas PAF chief
 
The acquisition of combat helicopters and other modern equipment could greatly boost the capability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and other government agencies to deliver immediate services for hard to reach areas including in times of disasters.

Philippine Air Force commanding officer for Western Visayas Col. Ronie Petinglay said the newly acquired helicopters and other modern equipment are much needed for the country to secure and maintain its rights on its aerial territories.

”We need the fighter jets to safeguard the West Philippine Sea ,” Petinglay cited. He said that with the capability it would now serve as deterrence so that the Philippines sovereign rights would not be violated and even respected by other countries.

These helicopters would also help the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and disaster agencies to reach and deliver needed services to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

”There are really areas because of its terrain could not be reached by ground vehicles so the helicopters could deliver the basic services,” Petinglay said.

Petinglay announced his observation after watching the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Benigno S. Aquino III at the Batasan Complex, Quezon City on Monday.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=666967