Marcos tells PAF: Recommit to being responsive; VP salutes airmen's bravery

President Marcos has urged the Philippine Air Force to continue being a swift and responsive force, saying they owe it to the people.

- BY BETHEENA UNITE, RAYMUND ANTONIO, and MARTIN SADONGDONG

During the 78th founding anniversary of the Air Force on Tuesday, July 1, Marcos reaffirmed his administration's mission to improve the Air Force, and told them to maintain their resolve in serving the country.

"Remember: We owe the Filipino people a swift and responsive Air Force.

Today, in its 78th year, let us recommit to that," Marcos said in his speech.

"Thank you for keeping us safe. You do all your work in the sky so that all of us here on the ground may live in peace and security," he added.

"Let our resolve be focused and unshaken as we serve the Philippines and fly ever higher together," the President went on.

Marcos said as their Commanderin-Chief, he assured them that they will continue to enjoy the trust and support of the administration to the Air Force.

He stressed that the PAF is "a steady partner" in building peace and reaching those who live farthest from help.

Recognizing the critical role of the Air Force, he said the government will exert all efforts to provide them with the best possible equipment, training, and facilities.

"We remain relentless in ensuring that support will continue. Because we know that when our troops are equipped and are attended to properly, they are empowered to fulfill their duties and serve the country with excellence," Marcos said.

The President acknowledged the contributions of the Air Force personnel, saying they have proven what it means to be focused and to be excellent.

According to Marcos, hundreds of unidentified tracks have been monitored in the country's air defense zone and thousands of vessels near its waters have been kept under close watch by the Air Force.

He added that insurgents have been tracked, threats have been neutralized, and law enforcement operations were supported-from capturing criminals and stopping smuggling operations that hamper the economy.