As it bid farewell to outgoing President Aquino, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday thanked their outgoing commander in chief for his unprecedented support to the military’s capability upgrade and modernization program.
A simple testimonial parade was held for Aquino at the AFP grandstand in Camp Gen. Emilio Aquinaldo.
Aquino, who will end his six-year presidency on June 30, is credited with modernizing the 120,000-strong military organization by equipping it with billions of pesos worth of assets.
Under his term, more than P60-billion in funds were released for the military capability upgrade and modernization program. This enabled the AFP to acquire ships, planes, helicopters and other needed equipment for the soldiers.
In its last tribute to Aquino, the AFP has prepared a division-size parading contingent.
As ordered by the President, there was no fly-by from the Philippine Air Force’s two brand new FA-50s to keep the sendoff as modest and simple.
Full honors were accorded to the Aquino upon his arrival at the AFP grandstand with the Acting Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Glorioso V. Miranda as the military host. (Elena L. Aben)