AFP chief to expedite modernization program

The AFP Modernization Program is divided into three horizons, with the first lasting from 2013 to 2017, the second from 2018 to 2022 and third 2023 to 2028. (PNA photo)

MANILA — Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez vowed to expedite the processing of contracts relating to the AFP Modernization Program.

However, he assured the public that such matters will be done deliberately and prudently.

“The President is pushing us to make our modernization move forward. We need to choose people who can deliver results for our modernization,” Galvez said in a statement Tuesday.

The AFP Modernization Program is divided into three horizons, with the first lasting from 2013 to 2017, the second from 2018 to 2022 and third 2023 to 2028.

The Second Horizon calls for the acquisition of equipment more attuned to external defense missions.

The new AFP chief also promised to work hands-on and without delay.

He announced that he will not impose any “cut off time” in sending documents to him that needs to be acted upon-even past office hours.

“I am results-oriented. We must be outputs-oriented as we value teamwork and meritocracy. Be righteous. Be perfect, because any mistake may mean the lives of the people we have sworn to serve and protect; and the lives of our very own soldiers,” the newly-appointed AFP chief added.

“We need the cooperation of everyone–Officers, Enlisted Personnel, and Civilian Employees–in translating the intent of the AFP into tangible realities,” he pointed out.