By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
After navigating a jam-packed itinerary in Central Luzon, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. rounded off his Wednesday engagements with an attendance at the 58th Founding Anniversary of the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing (PAW) held at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.
In his speech, the President cited the indispensable role of the Philippine Air Force’s premier air unit in providing safe and reliable transport to the country’s highest government official, members of the Cabinet, and the First Family, among others.
Apart from providing passenger duties, the Presidential air service likewise plays an important role in government response to Filipinos in need during disasters and emergencies.
President Marcos Jr. addressed PAW personnel, “It is a very great responsibility because you cannot allow any room for error, no room for complacency.”
He likewise recognized the significant evolution of the Bluebirds’ capabilities and service improvements that have enabled him to carry out official duties in different parts of the country.
Among the recent engagements where the President benefited from PAW’s services are his visits to Tarlac, Zambales, and Pampanga, as well as his visits to earthquake-hit areas in Cebu and Sarangani.
“You give the President and the presidency [support] — because you do not only fly me – you fly my staff, you fly all the support staff that is necessary for me to be able to do my job properly… and you provide the readiness to respond when circumstances call for a quick and rapid response.”
The Chief Executive concluded his remarks by expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the premier air unit’s pilots, aircrew, maintenance and security personnel, civilian workforce, and their families for their contributions to the unit’s mission and to the Motherland.
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