MANILA, Philippines –
The Philippine Armed Forces took possession of 23 newly acquired U.S. ambulances
on January 26. High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, commonly referred to
as “HUMVEE” ambulances, are another example of joint U.S.-Philippine efforts to
improve capabilities to meet the challenges of the 21
st century. The
turn-over ceremony and blessing was conducted at General Headquarters and
Headquarters Service Command, Quezon City. Seven additional HMMWVs will arrive
towards the end of February to complete the ambulatory fleet of multipurpose
vehicles. In total, the Foreign Military Sales transaction amounted to
US$18,993,629 (PHP 837,876,782).
This procurement of U.S. engineered and manufactured Humvee Ambulances is a
milestone toward enhancing the Philippine Army’s frontline health services
capabilities.
Secretary of National Defense, Voltaire T. Gazmin attended the ceremony and
acted as the Guest of Honor and keynote speaker. Also in attendance were
personnel from the Department of National Defense (DND), AFP General
Headquarters, and Joint U.S. Military Advisory Group (JUSMAG) Philippines, all
of whom played a key role in the acquisitions process.