Philippine Gov't Buys 12 Cargo Helicopters From Russia For Military Modernization

The Philippines has ordered 12 helicopters from Russia for its military and assured the government will be prompt in paying for it, President Rodrigo Duterte said.

In an interview aired Friday, January 24, by Russian Television Network, the President said he would not take advantage of the two countries’ ties to purchase the cargo choppers.

“We had our priorities. I was buying for 12 cargo helicopters and you know, we are not a rich country. However, we programmed the funds of the government, how to budget it. There’s always not enough to go around with,” President Duterte said.


“I’m sure that we’ll have to make the down payments and be prompt in our, you know, just because Russia is a friend, doesn’t follow that we abscond or we do not pay our debts. We have placed the orders now. Twelve military helicopters — cargo choppers,” he added.

Last year, the Armed Forces of the Philippines was eyeing the procurement of 16 Mi-17 medium-lift Russian helicopters with a total worth of USD235 million from Russia, as part of its modernization program.

The President has made two official trips to Russia since he assumed the presidency in 2016.

He first paid a visit to Moscow in May 2017 but cut the trip short to deal with the deadly terror siege in Marawi City.

Last October, he made his second visit to Russia where he sought closer bilateral economic and defense cooperation and secured more than ₱620 million worth of business deals.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier told President Duterte that he considers the Philippines “a very important partner of Russia in Asia,” citing the constructive and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.

President Duterte, for his part, affirmed the Philippines’ strong commitment to a robust and comprehensive partnership with Russia based on mutual respect, trust, and pragmatism.

He said the Philippines could be a prospect for Russian businesses, saying the distance between the two countries is not a hindrance to their “friendship.”

“I am sure Russia could come here, and look for viable businesses that can help Russia, your country. And we do not consider the distance as a limit. In our friendship, in our desire to be a partner of Russia and the rest of the eastern countries in trade and commerce,” President Duterte added.

Source: MB