Government to remain steadfast in AFP modernization – Marcos

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos emphasized yesterday the need to continue modernizing the military, to make it “more mobile and agile” in a geographic location that he described as “both a blessing and a challenge.”

Wearing a jumpsuit, Marcos witnessed the turnover and blessing of one of the three C295 medium lift aircraft acquired from Spain as well as the flight capability demonstration of the FA-50PH jet at Clark Air Base in Pampanga.

The C295 twin-turboprop transport aircraft was manufactured by Airbus Defence and Space and can be used for medical evacuation, civic and humanitarian airlift and other missions.

The third aircraft was delivered last month while the first two units were delivered in March and November last year, respectively. The P5.28-billion contract for the purchase of the C295 aircraft was signed in 2019.

The FA-50PH jets, meanwhile, are expected to enhance the military’s maritime patrol capability, help the Air Force monitor developments within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, and provide close air support to combat troops.

“While these equipment will boost the readiness of our Air Force to respond to any contingency, there is still a need to further improve our capabilities to effectively cover our territory,” Marcos said in a speech during the event.

Marcos noted that the Philippines is challenged by various climate-related hazards, which he said could “potentially paralyze government and business operations.”

According to Marcos, the additional C295 aircraft would allow the military to provide more responsive support to government agencies, especially in emergency situations and on humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.