Marcos: Surface-to-air missile system boosts PH's defense capabilities

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 19) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Friday that the Philippine Navy's new missile system aimed to counter air attacks bolsters the country's defense capabilities, especially as the region faces a "fluid security situation."

The chief executive attended the Philippine Navy's capability demonstration in San Antonio, Zambales, where he witnessed the test firing of the new defense and other weapons systems.

"With the fluid security situation in our region, it is imperative that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and of course the Navy is substantially equipped, trained, and always on alert to respond to any and all exigencies that may confront our nation," he said.

"It is for this prime reason that we exert a continuous effort to strengthen the capacity of our Armed Forces," Marcos added.

The president said the administration will continue to push for similar naval exercises, as he reiterated the government's commitment to modernizing the military.

"We are now working on horizon three of the AFP modernization program. As we do so, let us likewise ensure parallel training and capacity building for our personnel, especially for those who would actually operate and maneuver these major naval assets and with the backing of their highly technical training," he said.