PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. yesterday vowed his administration will continue to support the capability development of the Armed Forces through acquisition of additional air assets, enhancing cyber warfare communication systems, and pursuing base development programs.
In his speech at the 77th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force at Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Marcos said “these assets” will contribute a lot to an “agile Air Force” that will be capable of protecting the country.
“We have likewise acquired additional aircraft, as well as advanced radar systems, which have transformed our operational readiness and enhanced our operational reach,” Marcos said.
“Indeed, these assets contribute to an agile Air Force – capable of protecting our nation, people, and our resources, and dedicated to ensure that we are ready to face challenges with advanced precision, speed, and force,” he added.
He saluted the men and women of the PAF for their courage as they embody the “Filipinos enduring spirit of freedom.”
He said that the PAF, which has been serving the nation for 77 years, is the “faithful guardian” of the Philippine aerial domain and recognized it’s “unparalleled dedication and noble duty, as he encouraged it to further strengthen the country’s air defense and the armed forces of the country.
He extended his gratitude to the valiant officers and personnel of the PAF led by Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreno.
“As your Commander-In-Chief, 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,” he said.
Marcos led the presentation of plaques and streamers to the outstanding PAF officers as he assured them that their welfare will be given utmost priority.
He also said that the government has taken significant measures to enhance its vision of a more capable air force.
“We have increased our maritime domain awareness by regularly conducting maritime patrol mission (and) monitoring over 400 known tracks within the Philippine air defense identification zone… We have likewise supported internal security operations which have resulted in the surrender and neutralization of over 250 members of local insurgency groups,” Marcos said.
He called on the Air Force to move forward guided by the ideals of a “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) and to remain united in their mission of protecting the skies and land.
The President was presented a brass eagle sculpture memento during the event.
The PAF was established on July 1, 1947 through Executive Order No. 94.
MORE CAPABLE AIR FORCE
Parreno, at the event, vowed a more capable and credible air force amid the evolving security landscape in the region.
“As we turn over a new leaf, your capable Philippine Air Force, now more capable credible and sustainable, stands ready to answer the call of duty amidst of an ever evolving security landscape when trespassing aggressors are denying us our right within our own territory, threatening our ships and harming our soldiers, we are ready to respond swiftly with courage and firm resolve in defense of our sovereignty and in honor of our flag,” Parreno said.
Recently, the maritime territorial dispute between Manila and Beijing has grown more confrontational, with Chinese vessels repeatedly harassing and blocking resupply missions to a Filipino military detachment in Ayungin Shoal.
On June 17, a Filipino sailor lost his thumb in a confrontation with Chinese coast guard personnel while two Philippine rigid-hull inflatable boats were damaged near Ayungin shoal.
Parreno said the PAF will always be ready to respond and defend the country’s air space, sovereignty and territory.
To underscore its capabilities, the PAF during the anniversary showcased its ability in a scenario to seize control of enemy-occupied territory with its FA50 fighter aircraft neutralizing enemy aircraft and conducting bomb runs to destroy enemy command and control infrastructure, followed by targeted surface attacks from A29B Super Tucano ground attack aircraft. S70i Black Hawk helicopters, equipped with fast rope insertion and extrication systems, then deployed special operations forces for rapid infiltration.
The PAF also demonstrated the use of Guided Precision Aerial Delivery System (GPADS).
It also highlighted its Spyder air defense system which were purchased from Israel and delivered last year.
A formation flight of T-41 and SF-260 trainer aircraft also formed the number “77,” symbolizing the PAF’S anniversary.
COMMITMENT
“This year’s theme “Accelerating Above And Beyond 77 years of PAF excellence in protecting the nation and securing the skies” reflects the enduring commitment of past and present Filipino airmen and airwomen to serve the nation with excellence and relentlessly pursue inclusive progress,” Parreno said, adding that much have changed in more than seven decades since the PAF was established.
“Every day, we continue to muster strength, boost our capabilities and consolidate power through modernization efforts and constant training, and even as we continue to grow, we take immense pride in how far we have already come in enhancing our public value, improving accountability, promoting good governance and nurturing a culture of safety within the organization and just as we sustain efforts to bolster our force in capability development,” he added.
He said the PAF have formulated a maintenance management system audit manual which is a reference for establishing a standard for a robust maintenance system of its aircraft and other assets to ensure operational readiness and responsiveness across all air force units.
At the same time, he said the command will also serve as “instrument of peace and development.”
Speaker Martin Romualdez assured the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the whole AFP that the House of Representatives would fund their modernization and welfare programs under the national budget for 2025.
“We are committed to providing the necessary legislative support to ensure that the modernization programs and welfare initiatives for our armed forces are fully funded and effectively implemented,” the Speaker said during the PAF’s anniversary celebration.
Romualdez said the government “will continue to work on policies that enhance our defense capabilities, improve the conditions of service for our soldiers, and ensure that the Philippines remains safe and secure.” He said the administration “has been steadfast in its commitment to enhancing our country’s defense capabilities.”
“We recognize that in this ever-evolving world, our security apparatus must be dynamic, robust, and forward-looking. The administration has thus embarked on a comprehensive modernization program aimed at upgrading our defense systems and ensuring that our armed forces are equipped with the latest technology and resources necessary to meet the challenges of the modern battlefield,” he said.
He pointed out that such commitment is supported by substantial budget allocations for advanced aircraft, cutting-edge radar systems and state-of-the-art equipment.
“These advancements are not merely for show; they are essential tools that enable our air force to execute its mandate with greater efficiency and effectiveness. They are a testament to our unwavering resolve to safeguard our nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.
He said the President and Congress are also looking after the welfare of members of the armed forces.
“Recognizing the immense sacrifices you make, the administration has implemented various programs aimed at improving your living conditions, providing comprehensive health care, and ensuring that your families are well-supported. These measures are in place to ensure that you can perform your duties with peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones are taken care of,” he said. — With Ashzel Hachero and Wendell Vigilia
