Gordon: RP needs C-130 more than presidential jet

Senator Richard J. Gordon (Ind.) today said that Malacañang made a wise decision to abandon its plan to acquire a new presidential jet and stressed that an additional C-130 plane is much needed and would be a more practical purchase.

Gordon said the country stands to benefit more if the government would purchase C-130s. He explained that aside from the transport of troops and armaments during military operations, C-130s are used for relief operations during disasters and armed conflicts, and could also be used for the transport of agricultural goods.

"It's a good thing that Malacañang decided to cancel the purchase of a new presidential jet. But if the government is capable of buying a jet plane worth P1.2 billion, it should seriously consider acquiring a C-130, which would be more beneficial to the country," he said.

Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), pointed out that a C-130 plane is important in relief efforts in disaster- and conflict-stricken areas where they have to bring food and non-food items.

"Our inability to reach our people quickly can spell the difference between life and death. Right now, we only have one C-130 plane that can be used for rescue and evacuation operations, rendering us barely capable of responding to the clear and present danger of disasters," he said.

The senator also said that the aircraft could be used for the transport of agricultural products from provinces to markets in Metro Manila. The model for this operation has already been tested through the Fruits of Hope program of the PNRC.

Under the Fruits of Hope program, farmers gained better profits after several tons of fruits from various parts of Mindanao, particularly in Sulu, Basilan and North Cotabato, were flown to Manila using a C-130 plane and brought to Villamor Airbase in Paranaque, Metro Manila where they were picked up by two supermarket chains.

"Considering the many uses of this aircraft, I am concerned that we only have one C-130 plane operating right now. We have to set our priorities. An additional C-130 plane is really necessary not only for our military troops but also for our people who experience poverty and are affected by disasters and armed conflicts," Gordon said.