By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
As the top official of the country’s various military institutions, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the celebration of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) 79th Anniversary at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on Wednesday.
In his speech, the President briefly looked back at the early days of the PAF since its establishment as a separate major service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 1947.
He went on to highlight how the institution has gone from strength to strength over the decades, with generations of airmen and airwomen remaining true to their mission of providing humanitarian assistance in times of need and supplementing the military with equipment and manpower during missions in defense of the country’s territory.
President Marcos Jr. addressed the PAF personnel, “Through bilateral and multilateral defense engagements, the Air Force has deepened its cooperation with allies, enhanced interoperability, and promoted regional stability.
At the same time, you have reinforced our territorial defense through sustained patrols and air surveillance operations, strengthening our maritime domain awareness and sovereignty protection.”
The President meanwhile shared the unwavering commitment of the administration in enhancing the operational capabilities of airmen and airwomen through the PAF Modernization Program through the acquisition of helicopters, aircraft, and surveillance radar, among other equipment.
This initiative likewise involves health and wellness programs for every PAF personnel, as well as a thorough maintenance routine for all of the aircraft used in mission and training activities.
The Chief Executive concluded, “As your Commander in Chief, I encourage you to continue upholding the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and integrity. Above all, remain faithful to your Constitutional duty to protect our people and defend the democratic institutions that safeguard our freedoms.”
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