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Marcos says Air Force key to PH defense, vows relentless support

Philippine News Agency

By Darryl John Esguerra
July 1, 2025, 12:03 pm

MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday emphasized the Philippine Air Force's (PAF) crucial role in national security, disaster response, and law enforcement, vowing sustained government support to equip and modernize the service amid evolving regional threats and internal challenges.

Speaking at the PAF's 78th founding anniversary celebration at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Marcos praised the Air Force for its commitment to its mission and its growing capability to secure Philippine skies and support civilian communities.

"The Philippine Air Force is a force in its own right. It is credible, agile, and essential to our country's aerospace defense," Marcos said, noting the PAF's consistent presence across defense, humanitarian, and law enforcement operations.

He cited key operational milestones in the past year, including heightened air and maritime monitoring amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

"Hundreds of unidentified tracks have been monitored in our air defense zone and thousands of vessels near our waters have been kept under close watch by the Air Force," the President said.

The PAF also supported internal security efforts, he added.

"Insurgents have been tracked, threats neutralized, law enforcement operations supported - from capturing criminals and stopping smuggling operations that hamper the economy," he said.

The President said that behind the Air Force's quiet work is a culture of professionalism and sacrifice that continues regardless of recognition.

"The hard work continues even when nobody is looking," he said. "Time and again, you put your life on the line for the sake of our people."

To enable the Air Force to meet growing demands, Marcos reaffirmed his administration's commitment to sustained modernization efforts.

"The government will exert all efforts to provide the Philippine Air Force with the best possible equipment, training, and facilities," he said.

"We remain relentless in ensuring that support will continue."

Improved capabilities, he said, have begun to materialize, with the delivery of six new aircraft, the expansion of flight simulation and advanced training programs, and the completion of infrastructure projects that ensure air assets are protected and strategically deployed.

Despite operational challenges, Marcos also highlighted the PAF's swift response during natural disasters, both domestic and international.

Marcos assured the troops of his commitment to their welfare and mission readiness.

"Habang umaasa ang taumbayan sa inyo, kayo naman ay may maaasahan sa administrasyong ito. Bilang inyong Commander-in-Chief, titiyakin kong buo at tapat ang suporta at malasakit ko sa inyong lahat sa Philippine Air Force (While the people rely on you, you can count on this administration. As your Commander-in-Chief, I will assure steadfast and wholehearted support to the entire PAF)," he said. (PNA)