As part of the on-going Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program. The Headquarters of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division conducted on May 18 a blessing and ceremonial handover of military 4×4 truck troop carriers and truck field ambulances.
36 units of brand new KM450 4×4 Truck Troop Carrier and 4 units KM451 Truck Rescue troop Ambulance were lined-up in front of the Division in preparation for the blessing that was to take place.
Each KM450 truck cost ₱2,176,016.00 while the KM451 (ambulance) cost ₱5,000,000.00 each.
Rev. Antonio Mangahas Jr., Parish Priest of Gen. Tinio, Nueva Ecija, led the blessing of the newly-acquired vehicles.
Afterwards, Major General Angelito M De Leon AFP, Commander, 7ID, PA, led the Ceremonial Turnover of the keys of the military vehicles, assisted by Lieutenant Colonel Nelson A Buhay, Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics, G4, 7ID, PA, to the most senior Battalion Commander of 7ID, Lieutenant Colonel Emerito D Pineda of the Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion.
Also, Read this Philippine Military received 327 units out of 717 Kia KM450 military trucks
In a Major Gen De Leon’s message, he reminded everybody how the Army has lagged behind in capabilities.
Prior to the AFP Modernization Program and the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) was implemented.
Under these programs, and with the backing of a continuously reinforcing economy in the previous six years, the AFP is finally able to afford equipment that will, hopefully, propel it towards its vision of being world-class, not to mention boost the morale of its troops.
He further emphasized that the acquisition of new vehicles and armaments are not the only indication of an Army that is on its way to being modernized, more important is the mindset of the troops who will be using this equipment.
According to MGen. De Leon, our soldiers today should be more modern and open to change in terms of being updated and trained in the use of modern equipment, and in carrying out the ideals of the ATR in the accomplishment of their duties. For it is only in the upgrade of both physical and mental capacities can we truly realize a modernized Army. – Carl E.
