WAR.WIRE
US gives 33 trucks to Philippine military
MANILA (AFP) Apr 03, 2003
 The United States has donated 33 trucks to the Philippines to help the military in their battle against Muslim and communist rebels, officials in Manila said Thursday.

The 33 M-35 trucks, taken from US army stocks in Japan, will be used to boost the mobility of forces battling insurgents in the southern Philippines, Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Rodolfo Garcia said.

The Philippines has been one of the staunchest allies in Asia of the US-led war on terrorism and the offensive against Iraq.

Officials have expressed hope that the stance would yield greater US aid to the poorly-equipped Philippine military.

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