15 September 2005 – The Philippine Embassy in Brunei reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that the Philippine contingent shot their way to the top place for the first time in 15 years at the 15th ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet (AARM) 2005 that concluded on 11 September 2005

Philippine Ambassador to Brunei Virginia H. Benavidez reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that the Philippine team had an impressive performance garnering 14 gold medals, 5 silver medals, and 6 bronze medals. They also received the highest number of trophies, bringing home the perpetual trophies for the Rifle Match 5 (Falling Plate), Pistol (Ladies) Individual Champion, Pistol (Ladies) Team Overall Champion, MG & Rifle Match 4 (Section Match) and Carbine Match 3.

Ambassador Benavidez hosted a victory reception at the official residence on 11 September 2005 for the Philippine delegation composed of 59 officials and shooters.  In her remarks, Ambassador Benavidez thanked the contingent for raising the profile of Filipinos and projecting the Philippines as the home of world-class talents through their excellent performance in the competition.

The celebration was made doubly meaningful as Ambassador Benavidez took the opportunity to congratulate Major General Hermogenes Esperon, Jr., Commanding General of the Philippine Army, who had just been promoted that day to the rank of Lieutenant General. Gen. Esperon was in Brunei with other senior officials of the Philippine Army to attend the closing ceremonies for the AARM.

The AARM is held annually and aims to foster greater understanding of the Southeast Asian region and enable ASEAN armies to exchange professional knowledge in military skills. This year marked the third time that Brunei hosted the AARM since its inception in 1991. The meet is being held back to back with the Brunei International Skills-at-Arms Meet (BISAM) 2005, which will commence on 21 September.  Half of the Philippine contingent remained in Brunei for the BISAM. END