RP armed forces modernization urged

RP armed forces modernization urged

MANILA (AFP): President Fidel Ramos yesterday urged the "immediate enactment" by Congress of bills to modernize the Philippine armed forces.

In a statement, Ramos said only a modern military could carry out the "constitutional mandate" to protect the country. The Philippine armed forces are considered among the most primitive in Asia.

The government is seeking 131.46 billion pesos (US$5.05 billion) for a 10-15-year modernization plan, although the armed forces chief, Gen. Arturo Enrile, has said the military would need at least 370 billion pesos ($14.23 billion) to get up to date over 15 years.

Ramos sent separate letters to the heads of Congress urging their chambers to approve the bills.