MANILA - Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Lt. Gen. Andres Centino, on Wednesday pledged support for the continued development of the Army Aviation Regiment.

Centino made this pledge during his visit to the unit's headquarters in Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija where he was the guest-of-honor and speaker at the joint opening ceremony for the equipment transition training for the Bolkow BO-105 helicopter, the rotary wing transition course, and the aviator qualification course.

"I am fortunate to see the dawn of aviation in the Philippine Army. Rest assured that as Chief of Staff, you will have my full support in the enhancement of your capability," Centino said.

He also acknowledged the need to strengthen the Army Aviation Regiment as a complement in Army, Air Force, and Navy operations.

Centino also emphasized the role of the unit in transporting Army commanders, who are expected to lead at the front and oversee the status of operations and welfare of personnel in their respective units.

With this, the AFP chief promised to endorse the inclusion of new assets for the Army Aviation Regiment in the AFP Modernization Program. Four students, who are already rated helicopter pilots, will undertake the Bolkow training to make them qualified to fly the BO-105 helicopter that was commissioned by the regiment in July this year.

On the other hand, the rotary-wing training with six students and aviation qualification course with 10 students, is expected to produce rated helicopter pilots and aviators respectively.

"To the students, make good of the time and this opportunity to further improve your knowledge, skills, and attitude so that you may serve the Army and the AFP better," Centino said. (PNA)