In an interview with local media during the 69th anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) here, Visaya said the military will continue to pursue the NPA in the field “until such time that the national leadership says there is ceasefire.”
“Then we will obey,” he said.
Visaya also said the AFP under Duterte will “re-prioritize” its list of military equipment for purchase under the government’s military modernization program.
He noted that the President is focusing more on internal problems that should be the basis for the re-prioritization of purchases of military equipment.
“Expect changes in the next three to six months in terms of equipment for the military,” he said, noting that at least 30 sea aircraft are forthcoming.
He also said the military is also focusing on more purchases of helicopters.
Visaya also dismissed ISIS threat in the Philippines, but that the military will remain in close touch with neighbors in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in monitoring extremists.
“Talks of such threats could be merely psy-op, but we will remain vigilant,” he added.
