AUTHENTICATIONPhilippine Army Observes 3rd International Army Games in Moscow, Mulls Future Participation
Clockwise from top-left: 1) PHL delegation headed by Gen. Glorioso Miranda, Commanding General of the Philippine Army (2nd from right) during an event; 2) Opening ceremony of the 3rd International Army Games in Patriot Park, Moscow Region; 3) Col. Cronelio Valencia, Jr., J-5, granting an interview to Russian media; and 4) The “tank biathlon” event held in Alabino, Moscow Region. Photos by J. Valdez.
03 August 2017 MOSCOW – A delegation from the Philippine Army headed by Lt. General Glorioso Miranda, Commanding General, was in Moscow on July 28 to August 02 to observe the 3rd International Army Games. The Army Games attracted competitors from the armies of 28 countries and a number of observers, including the Philippines.
"We are pleased to observe the International Army Games and we are looking forward to participating as competitors in the future. This is a great way to build networks between the armed forces of different countries and enhance our skills," Lt. Gen. Miranda said, after watching several competitions.
The competition started on 29 July and will end on 12 August and involves 22 venues in Russia, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and China. Many of the events were held in the Moscow Region. The opening ceremony was graced by Mr. Sergey Shoigu, Defense Minister of the Russian Federation.
Among the events were “Tank Biathlon,” “True Friend” (K-9 units), “Guardian of Order” (Military Police units), “Masters of Artillery,” “Scout Rangers,” “Medical Relay,” “Drone Competition” and many others.
Stronger defense cooperation is among the focal points of enhanced Philippines-Russia relations under the Duterte administration, particularly focused on enhancing Philippine defense capabilities. During the meeting between President Rodrigo Duterte and President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on 23 May 2017, both leaders agreed to expand cooperation in this area. END
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