Samar soldiers get new assault rifles

CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines – Soldiers belonging to the 20th Infantry Battalion (IB) have been issued new assault rifles as part of the Army’s modernization program.

Maj. Gen. Jet Velarmino led the distribution of Remington R4 assault rifles to the soldiers, led by Lt. Col. Hilarion Palma, at Openiano Field here yesterday.

“One of the most important elements of a strong democratic country is a strong and reliable armed forces… It is imperative that soldiers are equipped with modern military hardware and provided with advanced military training to successfully perform its mission,” Velarmino said in his address to the troopers.

“Lighter yet powerful, gas-operated and with a trigger mechanism with fire selector and safety button, this weapon  ideally designed for troops on the ground especially those in the frontlines,” Velarmino said, referring to the R4 rifles.

The Armalite and baby Armalite rifles previously issued to the soldiers will be recalled and turned over to the Army’s reserve command and members of the Citizens Armed Force Geographical Units.

At least 24,300 R4 rifles have so far been distributed to Army units while 19,866 are undergoing ballistic tests.