Philippines eyes arms surveillance equipment from Israel

MANILA, Philippines – In a bid to improve the country’s fight against terrorism, President Duterte is eyeing one or two countries – including Israel – for the procurement of intelligence equipment and arms for the military.

Duterte also urged members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines yesterday to improve their skills in fighting urban terrorism as soldiers would now no longer just focus on insurgency.

He said the government would be striking defense deals with allied countries.

 “You should get it as fast as Israel can produce it, I’m buying. So how many are you? Almost…130,000-plus…I will buy,” Duterte said during a visit to the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division at Camp Manuel Yan in Mawab, Compostela Valley.

Duterte noted that many countries sourced their intelligence equipment from China, India and Israel but the Philippines should ensure the quality of the equipment and that states or governments that supplied them would not take advantage and eavesdrop on local affairs.

“We are mandated by law to preserve our territory and protect the citizens, that is our sworn duty. And the people pay us, so we must be conscious of that. So we really need to exert efforts to the (maximum),” he said.