MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- The secretary of national defense for the Republic of the Philippines, a billet equivalent to the United States secretary of defense, visited Parris Island Dec. 7 to observe recruit training.
His Excellency Avelino J. Cruz, along with his personal staff, were aboard the Depot for a brief five-hour tour of the Marine Corps recruit training process.
"We are here to observe and take back tips to train our own units," said Rodel A. Cruz, under-secretary for legal and priority concerns of the Republic of the Philippines.
Cruz stated the Philippine's defense system is attempting to begin a six-year program to build 84 battalions. According to Cruz, each year, 12 Army infantry-like units and two Marine units will be created until the goal of 84 battalions is reached.
"The training of recruits is key to us," Cruz said. "We are training to upgrade the capabilities of our own units."
The official party was given a brief on recruit training and the receiving process followed by a re-enactment of civilians standing on the yellow footprints for recruit training. They were also given an indoor receiving orientation, shown a squad bay and experienced a mock pick-up, where recruits are able to meet the drill instructors who will train them to become Marines for the next twelve weeks.
"The Armed Forces of the Philippines do not need to recreate the U.S. system, but develop a foundation that will enable them to produce capable officers/soldiers of good character," said Army Maj. Blaise Liess, a defense executive liaison for the U.S. Army.
The official party members were introduced to drill instructors, company first sergeants and company commanders and were afforded the opportunity to ask the instructors questions about training recruits.
"[The United States] is a place to [learn] from," Cruz added, "their training will facilitate us and help us pick up ideas."