AFP Modernisation Programme receives funding

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernisation Programme has received PHP10bn ($230.3m) in funding for the purchase of additional weaponry and vehicles, Philippine President Benigno Aquino III confirmed.

Philippine budget and management secretary Florencio Abad said PHP5bn ($115.2m) will be charged against both the 2010 and 2011 budgets.

Under the 2010 funding, the army will procure 14 armoured personnel carriers, 272 20W-manpack radios and 3,480 units of force protection equipment.

The AFP will purchase weapons and communications equipment, handheld radios, base radios, portable radio receivers, sniper rifle systems, and standard weapons systems under the 2011 budget.

Part of the modernisation fund will also be spent on vehicles for civil military operations, health services and disaster response activities.

The funding will also include weaponry purchase for the Philippine Navy as well as the air force.