Soldiers in Northern Samar get 400 new assault rifles

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Feb. 3 (PNA) – The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID) has turned over 400 new assault rifles to a battalion in Northern Samar on Wednesday, representing the first batch of firearms delivery for the region.

Maj. Gen. Jet Velarmino, 8ID commanding general said that soldiers in all of the eight battalions in the region will get new R4A3 assault rifles, replacing the old models, “which are already in poor condition and need major repair.” 

The upgrading of the military’s firepower capability is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.

The first set of assault rifle delivery was intended for soldiers of 20th Infantry Battalion based in Palapag, Northern Samar. The troops just completed the Battalion of Excellence Training, a requirement before the distribution of new rifles.

The military will complete the replacement of old firearms within the year.

“They have to undergo training first on proper handling, familiarize different parts and learn how to maintain the firearms,” Velarmino said.

Each rifle and its accessories costs PHP38,000 procured by the AFP from US-based Remington Outdoor Company, Inc. under the joint Philippine Army-Philippine Marine Corps Assault Acquisition Project, according to the army official.

“This will increase the equipment readiness rating of the Philippine Army. This will also increase the level of confidence and morale of our soldiers especially those who are engaged in tactical operations,” Velarmino added.

Old rifles will be given to members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit and army reservists. (PNA)
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