The Tentra National Indonesia, Angkatan Darat, Indonesian Armed Forces, as this year’s host, formally opened the start of 29th ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet this morning at Camp Pusdikif, Cipatat, Bandung, West Java. The delegates started arriving at around 0700H as they waited for the arrival of their respective Deputy Chief of Armies (DCOAs).
LT.GEN Tatang Sulaiman, Indonesian Deputy Chief of Army (DCOA) graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor and Speaker. The event commenced with the grand entrance of the twenty one member representatives of each country at the 600 meter firing range. Noteworthy to mention was the arrival of the respective DCOAs of the participating Armies riding on their assigned military horses. The ceremony continued with the raising of the AARM flag followed by the remarks of the LT.GEN Sulaiman. It was concluded with a marching band performance and an impressive Indonesian Army Martial Arts demonstration as the icing on the cake.
After the ceremony, the DCOAs and their respective Escort Generals participated in the ASEAN Pistol Novelty Shoot which was conducted as part of the Opening Ceremony. The DCOAs and Escort Generals were divided into two (2) teams. MGEN REYNALDO AQUINO AFP, Vice Commander, Philippine Army won gold during the first round and silver during the second round of the shoot while COLONEL ROBERTO H HUET INF (MNSA) PA, Commandant, MTS, the designated Escort General to Philippine DCOA also won the gold during the novelty shoot summing up to two (2) golds and one (1) silver for the Philippines in the opening day of the event.
Following shortly, Vice Commander, Philippine Army took the opportunity to meet the Philippine Army Shooting Contingent (PASCON) to express his support and boost their morales as they embark on yet another challenge in their careers as athlete shooters. He further advised the shooters to maintain the highest degree of discipline and the drive to go the extra mile for the win in all the events.
Thirty four (34) PASCONs will be participating in this year’s AARM which will run from 21 to 24 November 2019. Pistol Men and Rifle Event will begin on 21 November 2019.
With optimism and reinvigorated mental toughness, the Philippine Contingent will be showcasing their skills in the days ahead to bring home the coveted gold.
