By Brian Campued
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration’s continued support to the Filipino airmen and airwomen as the Philippine Air Force (PAF) celebrates its 78th founding anniversary on Tuesday.
In his speech at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, the President lauded the outstanding contributions of PAF units and personnel in disaster response and national security—from bringing supplies to calamity-affected communities to providing support to troops on the ground.
“Whenever the mission calls, the Philippine Air Force answers. Time and again, you put your life on the line for the sake of our people,” he said.
“Habang umaasa ang taumbayan sa inyo, kayo naman ay may maaasahan sa administrasyong ito. Bilang inyong Commander-in-Chief, titiyakin kong buo at tapat ang suporta at malasakit ko sa inyong lahat na Philippine Air Force.”
Marcos underscored that the government will continue to provide support to the Air Force with the best equipment, training, and facilities in line with the modernization efforts of the Armed Forces.
He added that the PAF has already welcomed the delivery of six new aircraft, expanded flight simulation and advanced training, and completed various infrastructure projects that ensure air assets are protected and strategically positioned.
“We remain relentless in ensuring that support will continue. Because we know that when our troops are equipped and are attended to properly, they are empowered to fulfill their duties and serve the country with excellence,” the Chief Executive stressed.
Amid evolving threats and operational challenges, the PAF made significant strides in securing Philippine territory, including heightened air and maritime domain monitoring, the neutralization of insurgents, as well as the interdiction of smuggling operations in the country.
Meanwhile, PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura said the Air Force is advancing its capabilities in surveillance, precision strike, advanced systems, and integrated air defense; working for the adoption of space capabilities; and evolving its doctrines, force structure, and strategic partnerships in response to the Chief Executive’s challenge to “realign and sharpen” its focus towards territorial defense.
“Across our vast and porous archipelago, your Air Force has risen to that call, flying and defending our airspace and territorial integrity,” Cordura said.
“But more than platforms and systems, it is our values that propel us forward: integrity, service above self, teamwork, excellence, and professionalism,” he added.
Cordura likewise reiterated the PAF’s enduring commitment to “good governance, pursuit of a stronger safety culture, and unshakeable warrior ethos.”
“Together, we fly farther—not only to defend our skies, but to shape a future where the Philippine Air Force stands steadfast in its mission: ready, relevant, and resilient.”
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