RP, S'pore open joint exercises

RP, S'pore open joint exercises

LAUR, Philippines (AFP): As the Philippines and Singapore opened joint military exercises here yesterday, Philippine officials announced plans to go "shopping" in Singapore for Manila's military modernization program.

At least 828 members of the Singapore Armed Forces and 877 Filipino soldiers are taking part in the third annual exercise, held this year in Fort Magsaysay north of Manila.

Philippine Defense Secretary Renato De Villa opened the exercises by firing a Singaporean-made FH 2000 howitzer -- a weapon of interest to the Philippines -- while Philippine military chief Gen. Arturo Enrile and Singapore chief of defense force, Lt. Gen. Ng Jui Ping, watched.

Singapore's forces brought eight Super Puma helicopters, four howitzers, four AMX-13 light tanks and two Milan guided anti-tank missiles to the exercises, while the Philippines showcased its two operational F-5 jets, two S211 trainer jets and two OV-10 planes in a bombing display.