FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila -The Philippine Army received Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) equipment donated by Japan in a Hand-Over and Blessing Ceremony at the Army Headquarters in Taguig City on October 6, 2021.
The Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, His Excellency Kazuhiko Koshikawa, the Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana, and the Commanding General of the Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Andres Centino graced the ceremony.
The equipment worth 46.6 Million Pesos was donated by Japan government under its Capability Building Assistance to the Philippines to promote economic and social development efforts.
The government of Japan turned over to the Philippine Army the HADR equipment such as shelter for equipment, lifeboats, life vests, Search and Rescue Equipment Set for Individual Personnel, and other equipment for Disaster Risk Management, Disaster Response, and Disaster Restoration.
In his message, Secretary Lorenzana said, "We sincerely thank the government of Japan and its people for the generosity and goodwill in giving these types of equipment which will form part of the Army's HADR assets. While we pray that nothing will require their use soon, we are comforted that our Armed Forces can respond to our people's call for help with confidence that they are better equipped."
Lt. Gen. Andres C. Centino also expressed his appreciation for the equipment to complement and develop the Army's capabilities.
"We in the Philippine Army extend our sincerest gratitude to the Government of Japan. Your trust and support to our organization truly inspire us better to perform our duties and responsibilities as public servants," said Lt. Gen. Centino in his remarks.