Marcos to Air Force: Days ahead won’t be easy

MANILA, Philippines — Tougher days are on the horizon for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) amid unfolding “geopolitical challenges,” including persistent threats to the country’s territorial integrity, President Marcos said.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the days ahead will not be easy and will demand every ounce of our strength and our resilience,” Marcos said in a speech at the PAF’s 76th anniversary celebration at Clark Air Base in Pampanga yesterday.

“The winds of change signal geopolitical challenges around our region and other parts of the world that as yet affect us. The Philippine Air Force’s maritime air patrol missions are thus essential in upholding our territorial integrity and safeguarding Philippine maritime zones,” he said.

While he did not give details regarding threats to the country’s territorial integrity, Marcos was apparently referring to the
 Chinese who have seized several islets and land features in the West Philippine Sea.

“As members of the Philippine Air Force, you must always uphold these values as the custodians of our skies, entrusted with the task of upholding our national interests, protecting our people and defending our territory,” he said.

The President has been citing the need for the country’s armed forces to brace for changes in the security environment and the complex geopolitical situation in the region.

At the oath taking of newly promoted generals and flag officers last February, Marcos called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to be more agile not only in terms of military response, but also in diplomacy, saying the geopolitical situation around the world has become “more complicated.”

He had also described the South China Sea issue as the “most complicated” geopolitical situation in the world. China claims virtually the entire South China Sea, a vital sea lane through which more than $5 trillion in shipment pass every year.

“I reiterate that this administration is committed to strengthening the Armed Forces, including the Philippine Air Force, through the acquisitions under the AFP Modernization Program,” the Chief Executive said.

“I wish nothing but the best for the Philippine Air Force as it continues to soar to greater heights,” he maintained.

Marcos also thanked the PAF for its “76 strong years of selfless duty to the country,” saying its task goes beyond conflict, as it has been “selflessly” helping those in need in times of calamity and humanitarian crises.

“You have contributed in laying the groundwork for the enhancement of our aerial defense capabilities. So, on behalf of the Filipino people, I thank you for your service. May you continue doing your best in all the endeavors that you are given and inspire your fellow airmen and airwomen to do the same,” Marcos said.

“As your Commander-in-Chief, I am proud to see the great distance that we and the PAF (have) flown to ensure the security and sovereignty of our beloved nation. The achievements exemplify the values that the PAF stands for: integrity, excellence and patriotism.”

The event was also attended by Speaker Martin Romualdez, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and AFP chief Gen. Andres Centino.

The PAF, now led by Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño, was established on July 1, 1947 through Executive Order No. 94.

Before attending the anniversary program in Pampanga, Marcos witnessed the PAF’s capability demonstration at the Colonel Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Capas, Tarlac.

Kicking off yesterday’s activities was a demonstration of fighting capabilities of three FA50 fighter jets.

This was followed by a formation flight of T-41 aircraft forming the number 76 as several other military planes made a flyby demonstration.

PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the aerial spectacle not only demonstrated the PAF pilots’ aerial maneuvering skills but honored the PAF’s historic legacy as well. — Michael Punongbayan