CLARK AIR BASE, Pampanga, Nov. 28 (PNA) — Modernization efforts for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has gained momentum after President Benigno S. Aquino III approved Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin’s request to enter into a “multi-year contract” for seven acquisition projects.
This was disclosed by DND undersecretary for finance, munitions, material and modernization Fernando Manalo during the sidelights of FA-50PHs welcoming ceremony in Clark Air Base, Pampanga Saturday.
“PNoy (President Aquino) has approved the request of DND for SND to be authorized to enter into multi-year-contract. The approval will pave the way for the acquisition of two frigates for the Philippine Navy; anti-submarine helicopters and amphibious assault vehicle for PN; long-range patrol aircraft, close-air support aircraft, munitions for FA-50 and air surveillance for the Philippine Air Force,” he added.
Manalo said payment from the seven projects will run from 2015 to 2018.
Granting of the MYC will allow the military to pursue modernization program beyond Aquino’s term.
Total value of the seven projects is about PHP44 billion.(PNA)