GOVT VOWS FUNDING FOR PAF BUILDUP

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday vowed his administration's continuous support to the capacity building of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to ensure its readiness against threats.

Marcos issued the statement before the men and women of the command on the occasion of its 77th founding anniversary celebration at the Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga.

He noted ongoing efforts to acquire additional air assets as well as upgrading the PAF's enhancing cyber warfare communication systems, and pursuing base development programs.

"We have likewise acquired additional aircraft, as well as advanced radar systems, which have transformed our operational readiness and enhanced our operational reach," he said in his speech.

"Indeed, these assets contribute to an agile Air Force — capable of protecting our nation, our people, and our resources; and dedicated to ensure that we are ready to face challenges with advanced precision, speed, and force," he added.

This, he said, is also to sustain the "significant steps that complement and boost" the government's vision for a stronger and more capable Air Force.

These initiatives include the increased maritime domain awareness within the Philippine Air Force Defense Identification Zone, heightened international defense and security engagements by engaging with foreign military counterparts, and participating in multiple bilateral and multilateral military exercises.

"As your Commander in Chief, I assure you of this administration's support in prioritizing your welfare, ensuring that you are well attended to in terms of overall health and wellness so you may perform your duties effectively and safely," he said.

"Let it be known that your unparalleled dedication and noble duty to our nation are hereby recognized. Together, let us fortify our efforts to build a stronger Air Force and Armed Forces of the Philippines that will serve as an instrument for peace and for unity, a catalyst for nation building, and a vanguard of stability," he added.

At the same event, Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño, PAF commanding general, said the Air Force would not hesitate to swoop in and provide backup should the safety and security of any Filipino be jeopardized, especially when it comes to safeguarding the country's territory.

The assurance came two weeks after Filipino troops faced off with members of the China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia during a rotation and resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal. The Filipino military personnel were attacked by Chinese crewmen with axes, machetes and hammers to prevent the resupply mission from proceeding.

Stressing how the country's air defense is now "more capable, credible, and sustainable," Parreño reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the Constitution and sworn oath to defend the country.

*media[367899,367882,367883,367884,367885,367886,367887,367888,367889,367890,367891,367892,367893,367894,367895,367896,367897,367898,367900,367901,367902]**

"In the midst of an ever-evolving security landscape, when trespassing aggressors are denying us our right to our own territory, threatening our ships and harming our soldiers, we are ready to respond swiftly, with courage and firm resolve, in defense of our sovereignty, in honor of our flag," the PAF chief said.

The event was also attended by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, and other Cabinet, military, and police officials.

"We offer our God-given excellence, bravery, strength, and even our lives to protect our citizens and defend our sovereignty for us to achieve the new Philippines we are aspiring for. We vow to be instruments of peace and progress to everyone," Parreño said.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez assured the PAF and the AFP in general that the House of Representatives would ensure full funding for their modernization and welfare programs.

"We are committed to providing the necessary legislative support to ensure that the modernization programs and welfare initiatives for our armed forces are fully funded and effectively implemented," Romualdez said.

"We will continue to work on policies that enhance our defense capabilities, improve the conditions of service for our soldiers, and ensure that the Philippines remains safe and secure," he said.

Romualdez added that the Marcos Jr. administration, including Congress, "has been steadfast in its commitment to enhancing our country's defense capabilities."

"We recognize that in this ever-evolving world, our security apparatus must be dynamic, robust, and forward-looking. The administration has thus embarked on a comprehensive modernization program aimed at upgrading our defense systems and ensuring that our armed forces are equipped with the latest technology and resources necessary to meet the challenges of the modern battlefield," the speaker said.

Romualdez thanked the PAF personnel for their "dedication, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty are the pillars upon which our nation's security stands."

"The bravery and gallantry of our air force personnel in protecting our territory and sovereign rights cannot be overstated. Your relentless patrols, swift responses to threats, and tireless efforts in various operations demonstrate a level of dedication and professionalism that serves as an inspiration to all Filipinos. Your actions are a vital line of defense against those who seek to undermine our nation's peace and security," he said.

Romualdez also acknowledged the PAF's involvement in humanitarian and disaster response efforts.

"Your swift and efficient actions during calamities have saved countless lives and provided critical support to communities in distress. These efforts highlight not only your versatility but also your deep commitment to serving the Filipino people in their times of greatest need," he said.

Vice President Sara Duterte thanked the soldiers of the PAF as she greeted them on their founding anniversary.

"I greet all our courageous soldiers of the Philippine Air Force a happy and meaningful celebration of your anniversary," Duterte said in Filipino in a message for the anniversary which was posted on Facebook.

"We wholeheartedly thank you for your valuable sacrifice and dedication to faithfully serve our country. We salute you!" she said.

2024-07-01T16:18:05Z dg43tfdfdgfd