Air Force turns 67 amid ‘tough’ challenges

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

CLARK AIR BASE, Philippines – Amid security threats caused by an ongoing territorial dispute with China and neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, the Philippine Air Force celebrated its 67^th anniversary Tuesday, promising to uphold peace and freedom “no matter how tough or frequent the challenge may be”.

In a speech here, Lieutenant General Jeffrey Delgado, commanding general, said the PAF was “committed to transparency and good governance, serving our nation with integrity, service above self, teamwork, excellence and professionalism”.

With the theme PAF at 67: Soaring high for peace, freedom, and development, Delgado said they were committed to continue their service for the nation “no matter how tough or frequent a challenge may be.”

He added that God and the Filipino people would serve as witnesses for their “strong and highly disciplined” service.

“This is what defines your Air Force, not only then but especially now.”

President Benigno Aquino III was main guest in the event also attended by Armed Forces Chief Emmanuel Bautista and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin.

Delgado also honored those servicemen who built the foundation for the Air Force “who ushered in the new age of military aviation in Asia.”

“Each and every one of their flights has served as a refuge of hope, awe, and strength for our countrymen in the past and in the present,” Delgado said.

Delgado said that his men logged in 39, 745.4 flying hours in 2013 alone, to go along with 144, 535 persons transferred and 6,597,015 kilograms of cargo carried aloft for operations and humanitarian duties.

He added that the PAF helped 25,069 people who sought refuge after the onslaught of Super Typhoon “Yolanda” and that 3,025,665 kilograms of relief goods were delivered.

“We used our experiences during ‘Yolanda’ and the Bohol earthquake and other calamities to improve our capabilities in humanitarian and disaster response,” Delgado said.

Flaunting its capability as a military arm and breaking the prevalent joke of “all air and no force,” the PAF provided air support during the Zamboanga siege and the constant monitoring to guard the Kalayaan Island Group and the other disputed areas in the West Philippine Sea, Delgado said.

In June, Delgado said that they were ready to confront any intruders that may pose as a threat to the Philippine territory.

Delgado also took the opportunity during the anniversary to express his gratitude to Aquino for his support.

“Mr. President, rest assured that your unwavering concern to the Air Force will further strengthen our resolve to live up to our sworn vow to faithfully perform our duty and dedicate our lives for our country.”

RELATED STORIES

Air Force to display assets at anniversary rites

PH Air Force set to receive new aircraft

Not brute force, but a caring hand