Marcos cites Air Force role in guarding PH territory amid geopolitical challenges

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Monday highlighted anew the Philippine Air Force's role in safeguarding the country's territory amid geopolitical issues, saying that the coming days will not be easy.

This as Marcos graced the 76th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force. The President earlier witnessed the PAF's capability demonstration held at the Colonel Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Capas, Tarlac.

In his speech in Mabalacat, Pampanga, Marcos said each and every Air Force personnel should continue to uphold integrity, excellence, and patriotism "as the custodians of our skies and trusted with the task of upholding our national interests, protecting our people and defending our territory."

"Ladies and gentlemen, the days ahead will not be easy, and will demand every ounce of our strength and our resilience, the winds of change signal geopolitical challenges around our region, and other parts of the world that as yet affect us," Marcos said.

"The Philippine Air Force maritime air patrol missions are thus essential in upholding our territorial integrity, and safeguarding Philippine maritime zones. I wish nothing but the best for the Philippine Air Force as it continues to soar to greater heights," he added.

The President noted that the service of airmen and airwomen goes beyond extending assistance during humanitarian crisis and calamities.

It also extended support to the Philippine Army and other law enforcement agency agencies in upholding internal security and in making communities safe from various threats, according to Marcos.

Marcos then reiterated his commitment to strengthen the PAF through the acquisitions under the Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization program.

The President also expressed gratitude to the PAF for its service to the public.

"So on behalf of the Filipino people, I thank you for your service, that you continue doing your best in all of the endeavors that you are given and inspire your fellow airmen and airwomen to do the same," Marcos said.

"As your commander-in-chief, I am proud to see the great distance that we and the path has flown to ensure the security and sovereignty of our beloved nation," he added. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News