MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / May 27, 2014) – Filipino leader Benigno Aquino led Tuesday the Philippine Navy’s 116th anniversary celebration at the Naval Station Carlito Cunanan in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan province.
Aquino hailed the Navy’s contribution to the country’s defense and security and attended a capability demonstration of the Naval Forces West Command Center.
The command is at the frontline of the country’s territorial defense operations in the Kalayaan Islands and Aquino vowed to enhance the facility.
“Nakasalalay sa dagat ang ugnayan ng ating mga kapuluan, at malaki ang papel na inyong ginagampanan dito,” Aquino said. “Kaya naman, nararapat lang na alagaan at bigyang-lakas ng estado kayong mga kawal na siya ring kumakalinga sa buong sambayanan.”
The Navy is currently improving its facilities in Palawan given the strategic location.
“This is our closest geographical facility to an area where we have a lot of interest. And instead of delaying the ability of our forces to respond to anything, be it a man-made or a natural disaster, it is logical to put them in a position where they can address the particular issue at the soonest possible time,” Aquino said.
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