Singapore defense chief visits PH

Singapore Defense Minister Ng Eng Gen (left) is welcomed by Undersecretary for Defense Operations Natalio C. Ecarma III at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Wednesday. DND PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–Singapore’s Defense Minister Dr. Ng Eng Gen has visited the Philippines to discuss partnership in dealing with natural disasters.

He met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Thursday at Camp Aguinaldo to discuss bilateral defense relations and agreed to launch a dialogue among defense senior officials of both sides.

The two defense chiefs noted the increasing need to enhance partnerships in dealing with natural disasters, said Arsenio Andolong, acting   chief of public affairs office of the Department of National Defense  on Friday.

Gazmin also presented the Philippines’ security outlook and its efforts to make it more efficient and effective.

“We look forward to a more dynamic bilateral relationship with Singapore, as both countries address security concerns in the Asia-Pacific region. The visit of Minister Ng is a manifestation of a stronger Philippine-Singapore defense relations towards regional peace and stability,” Gazmin said in a statement.

Ng also visited the Office of Civil Defense where a dinner was hosted by Gazmin. He left the country  on Friday  afternoon.