President Marcos on Tuesday extolled the Philippine Air Force (PAF) on its for 78th year for unwavering service, underscoring its role in national defense and disaster response, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to bolstering defense capabilities.
Speaking at the anniversary celebration held at the Philippine Air Force headquarters at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, the President praised the men and women of the PAF for their “discipline, determination, and unshakable devotion” in protecting the Filipino people and the State.
“Seventy-eight years of service. Seventy-eight years of guarding our skies. Seventy-eight years of responding to every call for help,” the Chief Executive said.
“The Philippine Air Force is a force in its own right. It is credible, agile, and essential to our country’s aerospace defense,” Marcos added.
Among the top officials present were Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., PAF commander Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, and other senior military and diplomatic officials.
Mr. Marcos, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the AFP, acknowledged the PAF’s wide-ranging contributions—from monitoring hundreds of unidentified aerial tracks and maritime incursions, to supporting law enforcement operations, disaster relief missions, and counterinsurgency efforts.
“Insurgents have been tracked. Threats neutralized. Criminals captured. Smuggling operations stopped,” the President noted.
“Even with the demands of duty, the Air Force has continued to grow,” he noted.
Meanwhile, the PAF has added six new aircraft to its fleet, expanded advanced training through simulators, and completed key infrastructure projects to safeguard and strategically deploy its air assets, Marcos said.
He also cited his recent visit to the Air Education and Training Command in Batangas as part of initiatives to highlight the administration’s commitment to enhancing the military’s preparedness and welfare.
“The government will exert all efforts to provide the Philippine Air Force with the best possible equipment, training, and facilities,” the President said.
“When our troops are equipped and are attended to properly, they are empowered to fulfill their duties and serve the country with excellence,” he said.
The event also included the recognition of this year’s outstanding performers within the PAF. President Marcos congratulated the awardees, saying their excellence and dedication exemplified the standards expected of the armed service.
President Marcos also called on the organization to reaffirm its mission of delivering a “swift and responsive” air force for the Filipino people.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Marcos lauds PAF on 78th anniversary, vows full gov’t backing”
