Galvez: With AFP modernization, PH soldiers can now stand up vs bully countries

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez meet soldiers and officer of the military’s Southern Luzon Command in Camp Nakar in Lucena City. Photo by Delfin T. Mallari Jr./Inquirer Southern Luzon

LUCENA CITY – The top official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) vowed that the government military would soon stand up against the bullying of powerful countries.

In his speech before officials and soldiers of the military’s Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) in Camp Nakar here, AFP chief of staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, said President Duterte wants to complete the AFP modernization program until 2020.

Solcom chief Lt. General Danilo Pamonag led soldiers and officers in welcoming Galvez on Saturday morning.

Quoting the President, Galvez said Mr. Duterte hates how big countries are belittling the capability of the Philippine military.

“He (Duterte) said, I’m only buying time. When the time comes, other countries would not easily touch or bully us,” Galvez said.

He said the President wants him to hurry up the completion of the AFP
modernization program.

Top AFP officials and concerned security agencies of the government are conducting a series of meetings on how to fast-track the modernization program, Galvez revealed.

The Duterte administration has set aside P25 billion for the purchase of brand new attack helicopters, tanks and other military hardware.

Other armaments would also be acquired.