Speech by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the 79th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF)

Thank you to our National Defense Secretary, Secretary Gilbert Teodoro.

Please take your seats.

National Security Adviser Ed Oban Jr., the Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Browner Jr., and the other major service commanders. Philippine Air Force Commanding General, Lieutenant General Arthur Cordura; Philippine Coast Guard Commandant, Admiral Gil Gavan; Pasay City Mayor, Imelda Calixto-Rubiano; our Foreign Armed Forces Attachés here present; officers and personnel of the Philippine Air Force; other distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen, good morning.

Almost eight decades ago, the Philippine Air Force was born to serve our country and the Filipino people. Today, we commemorate and honor your beginnings and look toward a capability-enhanced future for our Air Force.

This year’s theme, “Forging a Credible, Agile, and Multi-Domain Air Force through Mission Readiness, Capability Development, and Values-Based Service,” reflects your commitment to building a stronger force.

Since becoming a separate major service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 1947, the Philippine Air Force has grown from a modest post-war force into a mission-oriented, capability-driven, and values-based institution.

Indeed, its development reflects the dedication of generations of Airmen and Airwomen who have remained adaptable while staying true to their mission.

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.

This past year alone, the Air Force logged nearly fifty thousand (49,896) flying hours across internal and external defense missions, military pilot training, unit training, and maintenance.

You transported millions of pounds of cargo and tens of thousands of passengers in response to and in support of disaster response, troop deployments, 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.

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

During times of calamity, you have shown up to rescue stranded individuals and support affected communities when they needed the government most.

For all these and more, our entire nation could not be more grateful.

It is only fitting, therefore, that your government stands steadfast in supporting the Air Force as it fulfills its mandate.

This is particularly important as modern challenges grow increasingly complex, requiring sustained investments in your capabilities so that you can perform your duties more safely and more effectively.

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

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.

We shall also support programs that protect the mental health and overall well-being of every Airman and Airwoman.

In line with this, I also reiterate my directive to the Philippine Air Force to ensure the airworthiness of all its aircraft and to uphold rigorous safety protocols in mission and training activities. Our aircraft carry the women and men who serve our nation. Their safety must always remain paramount.

Be assured that the Administration is committed to providing the Philippine Air Force with the resources, opportunities, and support necessary to carry out your mission with honor and excellence.

As your Commander-in-Chief, I encourage you to continue upholding the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and integrity.

Above all, remain faithful to your constitutional duty to protect our people and defend the democratic institutions that safeguard our freedoms.

Today, we also recognize those whose exemplary performance has brought honor to this institution. To this year’s awardees, congratulations.

Your achievements remind us that excellence is never achieved by chance—it is earned through consistent dedication to one’s responsibilities. May your example inspire others to serve with the same sense of purpose.

Let me also acknowledge the families of our military personnel. Know that your unconditional love, patience, and understanding have helped build the PAF that our nation proudly celebrates today.

As we mark this anniversary, let us remember that the strength of the Philippine Air Force rests on the character of the men and women who wear its uniform, the values that guide their service, and the trust that Filipinos have in them.

Together, let us stay the course and build a Bagong Pilipinas that is secure, resilient, and prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

Muli, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat.

Mabuhay ang Hukbong Himpapawid ng Pilipinas!

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