By Alithea De Jesus

Once again, the Israel government extends support to the Philippines as it recently donated 10,000 COVID-19 test kits to the Department of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines to further aid the military’s COVID-19 response.

 

Through Israel Ministry of Defense – SIBAT, the handover ceremony of the COVID-19 test kits was headed by the Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana and Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Rafael Harpaz. The Israel Ministry of Defense – SIBAT was represented by Defense Attaché Mr. Raz Shabtay.

Ambassador Harpaz said that Israel and the Philippines are friends and allies when it comes to military modernization and capability upgrade, and in these challenging times, both countries join forces to combat COVID-19.

Defense Attaché Mr. Shabtay stressed in his message the importance of multiple checks and early diagnosis of the COVID-19 virus carriers. “I hope that this humble contribution will assist in those efforts while we wait for a vaccine,” Mr. Shabtay said.

Furthermore, the Israel Defense Attaché noted, “I am proud and joyful for the opportunity to aid the Filipino people while facing these troubling times, as we are bound to the special alliance between our nations.”

In a meeting, the officials and diplomats discussed strengthening and expanding the defense cooperation between Israel and the Philippines, which includes counterterrorism, sharing of military technologies and experience, and more.

In attendance at the handover ceremony were designated Philippine Ambassador to Israel General Macairog Alberto, Asec. Leslie Baja of OMEAA, Usec. Raymundo DV Elefante of OUSFM, Asec. Teodoro Cirilo T. Torralba III of OASAIA, Asec. Jesus Rey R. Avilla of OASLA, and Asec. Hernando Caraig Jr. of OCD.

The ceremony was held on November 5, 2020, at the DND Social Hall, 3^rd Floor, DND Building, Segundo Ave., Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Israel also recently donated personal protective equipment to the first responders of the Department of National Defense and the Philippine National Police.

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