Push to fast-track AFP modernization program welcomed

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) welcomed the call of Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. to speed up the implementation of the military's modernization program due to evolving security challenges and rapid technological changes.

- By MARTIN SADONGDONG

"We fully support the statement of the Secretary of National Defense," AFP spokesperson for West Philippine Sea (WPS) Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad said.

According to Trinidad, the horizon planning for the modernization has been ongoing since 1992.

"There are changes already in technology, in the operating environment, hence the need to fast-track our projects," he stated.

Teodoro earlier disclosed that he was inclined to lobby for the amendment of the AFP modernization law, saying it has been "too impracticable."

"We cannot work with 15-year horizons. It's too long and too impracticable," he said.