Speaker Lord Allan Velasco promised that he would push for the Philippine Air Force fleet modernization after 50 people died in the Sulu plane crash.
“There are simply no words that can be said to console those left behind by our brave military personnel, as well as the three civilians who died as a result of this disaster,” Velasco said.
“I can only give my word that we in the House of Representatives will include in the 2022 budget the modernization of the PAF’s fleet as well as ensure the proper training of personnel in handling modern equipment,” Velasco added.
Velasco said the 2021 national budget was supposed to include funds for the purchase of more C-130 planes. However, Congress did not have enough time to deliberate when he took over in October 2020.
The House Speaker called on the House of Representatives for a full investigation into the Sulu plane crash.
“We acknowledge the importance of our uniformed personnel, as our dear President Duterte himself has done so several times,” Velasco said.
“The least we can do is to ensure that this never happens again,” he added.
House Speaker Velasco vows PAF modernization after Sulu plane crash
Senators also called for a probe into the Sulu plane crash.
“We mark this terrible loss of life with a reminder of the sacrifices our brave Filipino soldiers make each day in the name of duty to serve the country,” Senator Grace Poe said in a statement.
“At the right time, we expect a thorough investigation of the incident to see what can be done to avoid a repeat of the tragic crash and to put in place measures to make our military planes safe,” she added.
Senator Kiko Pangilinan said, “This is indeed a devastating incident for our Filipino soldiers who brave the frontlines every day to carry out their duty of protecting and serving their fellowmen.”
Meanwhile, Senator Panfilo Lacson said, “he would rather that we pause to pray for the souls of those who perished in that newly acquired billion-peso ill-fated C-130 plane as well as for the full and speedy recovery of the injured passengers.”
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