New PAF choppers to be used for search and rescue

MANILA, Philippines – The eight brand new combat helicopters purchased by the Philippine Air Force as part of its equipment upgrade will also be used for search and rescue operations in times of calamities, its spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Lieutenant Colonel Miguel Okol told Radyo Inquirer 990AM that the PAF leadership has decided to use the W-3A Sokol helicopters not only for combat but also for search and rescue operations.

Four of the eight helicopters were received by PAF last March from Polish manufacturer PZL-Swidnik SA.

By the end of the year, the brand new two-engine helicopters may be used for search and rescue operations.

Okol said they were also looking to acquire new fighter planes, radars and other equipment to beef up their operations for territorial defense.

PAF will be opening to the public its Fernando Airbase in Lipa, Batangas on July 6 as part of its 65^th founding anniversary.

Okol also encouraged the public to attend their air power symposium on July 22 and participate in a fun run with PAF officers on July 24 at the Venice Piazza in McKinley Hill.

The PAF spokesman said they would like to explain to the public how the upgrade of equipment could benefit the country and its people.