Duterte calls for vigilance vs terrorism, assures PAF of projects worth P139B

President Rodrigo Duterte attends the 71st anniversary celebration of the Philippine Air Force on Tuesday, July 3, 2018, at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. (Photo from an RTVM video)

President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday called on the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to “remain vigilant” as the government continued to battle the threat of terrorism.

In a speech during the 71st anniversary of the PAF at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, he also assured the PAF that the government would spend P139 billion for its modernization.

“In order to further develop a modern, adequately equipped, modern security force, the government is currently working on the implementation of the second horizon of the revised AFP modernization program by 2022, with 16 projects for the PAF worth over P139 billion already in the pipeline,” he said.

According to the President, the government has so far “completed the acquisition of air defense surveillance radars, utility aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles to complement our existing air assets.”

The government, he said, was also expecting the delivery of additional equipment and machinery in the following years.

The President said the Philippines would “continue to face challenges” as the government continued to aim for “a stronger and safer Philippines.”

“It is therefore vital to innovate and invest in strategies and technologies that will allow our forces to perform their duties safely and effectively,” he said.

He then urged members of PAF to be vigilant against terrorism and external threats.

“Your chain of command does not end with me,” he said. “I therefore enjoin the men and women of the PAF to remain vigilant as we intensify our fight against the current challenges of terrorism and external security.”

He lauded the contribution of the PAF to the liberation of Marawi City from a five-moth siege staged by Maute terrorists.

“As your commander in chief, I am proud to have witnessed the collaborative efforts of our Armed Forces in successfully reclaiming Marawi from the terrorist groups,” he said. “Your invaluable assistance have been fundamental not only in liberating the city, but also bringing order and stability in Mindanao and the rest of the country.”

The Filipino people, he said, would “never forget the gallant men and women who went beyond the call of duty selflessly, fought for the freedom we enjoy today.”

“Be assured that we remain steadfast in supporting the PAF as we implement the necessary reforms that will enable you to become effective agents of genuine and lasting peace,” he said. –With a report from Carol Balita, INQUIRER.net trainee