CLARK AIR BASE, Philippines—President Rodrigo Duterte promised more choppers with night-vision capabilities to the Philippine Air Force, an apparent emphasis on internal security operations.
“I will have all the things you need. Lahat ng kailangan (Everything you need), we will acquire more helicopters and night-vision capability…If we have that we can improve our performance,” he said in his speech at the 69th Air Force anniversary held here.
The President made no mention of the FA-50 fighter jets acquired by the Air Force, its biggest capability upgrade worth P18.9 billion for 12 units. He earlier criticized the purchase of the jets as a “waste of money.”
READ: No speed pass for FA-50 jets on Air Force anniversary
Duterte earlier mentioned that he would want to deal with internal security problems first when he assumes office.
In his speech, the President also congratulated the Philippine Air Force on their 69th anniversary.
READ: Duterte expected at Air Force anniversary
“I’ve seen you in action. I’ve been mayor for 23 years. We did a lot of things together,” he said.
Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina expressed readiness to work with Duterte.
“Mister President sir, the Air Force is ready to take on this commitment to a higher level with you as our commander in chief…Your Air Force is fully engaged to support our president’s battle cry of genuine and meaningful change,” he said.
In a capability parade, the Air Force displayed their ground mobility assets, which include communication vans, combat vehicles, ground base defense weapons and first responder vehicles.
A flyby of various air assets such as trainer aircraft, Bell helicopters, C-130 cargo planes and C-295 transport planes was also showcased towards the end of the event. RAM
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