PNoy: P1.2-B saved from assault rifles' procurement

MANILA, Philippines - The government saved P1.2 billion from a procurement project of M4 assault rifles for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, President Aquino said in his State of the Nation Address on Monday.

Aquino cited efforts for the military modernization in the past year, including the acquisition of 50,629 units of M4 rifles, which will completed in a few months this year.

"Ang bonus pa dahil sa maayos na proseso ng procurement at tapat na pangangasiwa sa pondo, may savings tayo na mahigit 1.2 billion pesos," Aquino said, to which the audience applauded.

The project cost the government P4 billion, smaller than the earlier earmarked allocation. Aquino said the savings will be used to buy "more firearms."

Aquino assured the public that the government did not compromise on the quality of the firearms, though bought cheaper than expected.

"Ididiin ko lang po brand new at de kalidad ang lahat ng ripleng ito na nagmumula sa manufacturer na daang taon na pong gumagawa ng sandata," Aquino said.