President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday saluted the men and women of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) for their courage as they embody the “Filipinos’ enduring spirit of freedom.”
Serving as the “nation’s wings” for more than 70 years, the PAF is the “faithful guardian” of the Philippine aerial domain, according to the President,
The President recognized the “unparalleled dedication and noble duty” of PAF. He encouraged it to further strengthen the air defense as well as the armed forces of the country.
“Together, let us fortify our efforts to build a stronger Air Force and Armed Forces of the Philippines that will serve as an instrument for peace and for unity, a catalyst for nation-building, and a vanguard of stability,” President Marcos said during the celebration of PAF’s 77th founding anniversary held at the Four-Bay Hangar, Cesar Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga on Monday.
President Marcos also witnessed PAF’s live capability demonstration, after which he acknowledged the salute of the Mission Commander.
He also led the presentation of plaques and streamers to the outstanding PAF officers, assuring them of the administration’s prioritization of their welfare.
“I assure you of this Administration’s support in prioritizing your welfare, ensuring that you are well attended to in terms of overall health and wellness so you may perform your duties effectively and safely,” the Commander-in-Chief said.
The President also highlighted the government’s significant steps to further enhance its vision of a more capable air force.
“We have increased our maritime domain awareness by regularly conducting maritime patrol missions [and] monitoring over four hundred unknown tracks within the Philippine Air Defense Identification Zone,” President Marcos said.
“We have likewise supported internal security operations, which have resulted in the surrender and neutralization of over two hundred and fifty members of local insurgency groups,” he added.
President Marcos underlined the efforts to amplify international defense and security engagements through discussions with foreign military counterparts and participation in multiple bilateral and multilateral exercises, which according to him are “a testament to our stern resolve to contribute to the global peace and security.”
He said the administration continues to support the armed forces through various ways of developing its capability such as “acquiring additional air assets; enhancing cyber warfare communication systems; and pursuing base development programs.”
Similarly, additional aircrafts and advanced radar systems were acquired resulting to operational readiness and enhancement of operational reach, noted the President.
“Indeed, these assets contribute to an agile Air Force—capable of protecting our nation, our people, and our resources; and dedicated to ensure that we are ready to face challenges with advanced precision, speed, and force,” he said.
The President called on PAF’s men and women to move forward guided by the ideals of a Bagong Pilipinas and to remain united to their mission of protecting the Philippine skies and land.
President Marcos was presented with a brass eagle sculpture memento during the celebration.