Marcos highlights 'sustained investment' in PAF at 79th founding anniversary

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday led the 79th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), saying the service has evolved from a modest post-war force into a mission-oriented, capability-driven institution.

At Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Marcos and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. presented awards to several PAF units and personnel in recognition of their outstanding performance and service.

"Whether providing humanitarian assistance after devastating typhoons or safeguarding our territorial integrity, the Air Force has shown time and again that it is an indispensable partner in nation-building," Marcos said in his speech.

The President said the PAF logged nearly 50,000 flying hours across internal and external defense operations, military pilot training, unit training, and maintenance activities in the past year.

He also said the Air Force transported millions of pounds of cargo and passengers in support of disaster response efforts and inter-island operations.

"Through bilateral and multilateral defense engagements, the Air Force has deepened its cooperation with allies, enhanced interoperability, and promoted regional stability," Marcos said.

"At the same time, you have reinforced our territorial defense through sustained patrols and air surveillance operations, strengthening our maritime domain awareness and protecting our sovereignty," he added.

Marcos also reaffirmed the government's commitment to modernizing the Air Force.

"Under the PAF Modernization Program, we have strengthened your capabilities through the acquisition of helicopters, aircraft, and surveillance radar," he said.

"Equally important is our sustained investment in the people who make these capabilities meaningful. We continue to invest in your development through specialized intelligence training, advanced flight simulation programs, and participation in exercises with other major services and international counterparts," he added.

The President also reiterated his directive to the PAF to ensure the airworthiness of its aircraft and strictly uphold safety protocols in both operational missions and training activities.

"Our aircraft carry the women and men who serve our nation. Their safety must always remain paramount," Marcos said. — VBL, GMA News