Manila, July 2 -- Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete on Thursday expressed support for the continuing modernization of the Army's medical service, noting that health care is a "strategic necessity."

"Military healthcare is not merely a supportive function; it is a strategic necessity. Every life you save, every wound you heal, and every preventive health measure you implement strengthens the spine of our fighting force," he said in a statement.

Aside from supporting the ongoing modernization of the PA health service, Nafarrete also pledged to further professionalize and develop personnel assigned to this vital unit.

The Army commander served as the guest of honor during the recognition ceremony for exemplary PA ...