Highlighting its crucial role in safeguarding the country’s peace and sovereignty, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday thanked the Philippine Air Force (PAF) for keeping the nation safe while working in the sky.

President Marcos recognized the PAF for its focused and excellent performance across critical missions. The PAF is one of the major services of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

In his speech during the 78th PAF founding anniversary celebration, the Commander-in-Chief underscored PAF’s strategic importance especially in providing stability and security throughout the archipelago.

“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,” President Marcos said. “Let our resolve be focused and unshaken as we serve the Philippines and fly higher together.”

The Commander-in-Chief noted that “hundreds of unidentified tracks have been monitored in our air defense zone and thousands of vessels near our waters have been kept under close watch by the Air Force.”

“Insurgents have been tracked. Threats neutralized. Law enforcement operations supported—from capturing criminals and stopping smuggling operations that hamper the economy,” the President added.

“When I stood before you last year, I said that the PAF is a steady partner in building peace and reaching those who live farthest from help,” the President recalled.

The President praised the professionalism and dedication of the PAF personnel, calling them a disciplined and reliable force for national protection.

“You are all well-trained, highly capable, and most importantly, more than willing to protect the citizens of the Republic and the Republic itself,” President Marcos said.

The Commander-in-Chief noted that the past year alone has showcased the PAF’s consistent excellence in fulfilling its mission, from national defense and law enforcement to development work and disaster response. I PND