Philippines to Export 500 Units of MX-8 “Barako” AEV Mk 3 to China

02/04/2015 – Manila | The Philippines is looking to make around 3B pesos from selling 500 units of MX-8 “Barako” Mk3 Armored Escort Vehicle to Chinese military, the People‘s Liberation Army (PLA).

A reliable source and top official from Camp Crame told The Philippine Pride, that two top government officials and a representative of Steelcraft Industries went to China last week to meet Chinese counterparts. Report said the meeting was successful and the deal has been finalized.

The MX-8 “Barako” AEV is a 100% Filipino-designed armored vehicle with Mitsubishi turbo engine. Steelcraft Industries Incorporated of Manila is the private company that is responsible in building the vehicles.

Source said the armored vehicle costs 6M pesos each, and the first 500 units is just an initial order. The MX-8 is currently on third generation.

This highly-confidential project is the first time that the Philippines will be exporting military vehicle and equipment, especially to a country like China.

The project could bring more jobs and profit, but critics are wondering how the two presidents agree on such controversial deal amid disputes over Spratly Islands.

Additional information says two South American Countries are also interested to acquire the vehicle. India and Pakistan are also possible customers, the source said.

Together with other APEC members, the two leaders will meet again when the Philippines host the December 2015 APEC Summit . Bacolod City, Boracay, and Clark in Pampanga are among the selected places to host the event. Most selected locations are tourists attractions and the upcoming APEC Summit could boost the countries ailing Tourism industry.

The country is now starting to prepare for the 2015 APEC Summit. Aquino praised Xi during the last summit saying he was impressed by China’s preparation.

See Also: Philippines Sends Naval Fleet, Fighter Jets to Disputed Spratly Waters

/Mambo Bucid/ Assisted Press Manila

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