Philippine Navy frigates, choppers: Essential in maintaining Philippine sovereignty

Philippine Navy flag-officer-in-charge Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano has said that its frigates and naval helicopters are essential in maintaining the country's sovereignty.

He made this statement during the sidelights of the commissioning ceremony of the Navy's three latest AgustaWestland AW-109 "Power" helicopters.

These helicopters, along with two armed versions coming by the third quarter of 2014, are worth around P1.33 billion.

"All of these (frigates and naval helicopters) are essential to ensure that we are able to secure our sovereignty (and) protect our national interest," Alano stressed.

He pointed out that these naval assets are also very useful in maintaining regional security and ensuring that there is peace and stability in the region.

The PN chief earlier said that the AW-109s will greatly extend the patrolling and monitoring capabilities of the two Gregorio Del Pilar class frigates in service.

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