Marcos vows acceleration of PAF modernization

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos vowed yesterday to accelerate the modernization of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to strengthen its capability in protecting the country’s sovereignty, fighting insurgency and responding to natural disasters.

In his speech at the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the PAF in Mabalacat, Pampanga, Marcos – the country’s commander-in-chief – cited the importance of the ongoing modernization of the PAF as this would complement the administration’s vision of “a stronger and bigger and effective air force capable of defending and maintaining our sovereign state and of assisting our people in times of dire consequences and today’s reality that this dictates.”

“A more modern aerial and surveillance capability is all the more felt, given the territorial disputes that we in the Philippines are involved in,” Marcos said.

“This enhanced capability is also proven to be very critical in the Philippine military’s efforts to protect the nation from local communist insurgence and the extremist groups in the South,” he said.

The PAF was supposed to conduct an aerial exhibition to form “75” in the sky to mark its anniversary but it was cancelled due to rainy weather.

Assisted by PAF commanding general Lieutenant General Connor Anthony Canlas Sr., Marcos administered the presentation of awards to PAF units and personnel who showcased exemplary performance in military service.

The President received a pilot’s combat helmet and jacket.

He was also given a copy of the PAF’s Flight Plan 2040 and ISSO Handbook. Marcos said the PAF plays a crucial role in responding to natural disasters. – Michael Punongbayan, Emmanuel Tupas