News Release

PBBM vows to support PAF’s continued modernization


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. made a renewed commitment on Tuesday to support the continued modernization of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), expecting the members of the military to remain dedicated to their duties to build a secure and peaceful country.

President Marcos gave this assurance during PAF’s Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony in Honor of Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony D. Canlas Sr. at the Villamor Air Base.

“Be assured that this administration remains committed to the modernization of the Philippine Air Force and the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Marcos said during the event.

“I, therefore, ask you to remain dedicated to your duties and continue to work closely with this administration as we build a safe, secure, peaceful country for the benefit of all Filipinos,” the Commander-in-Chief said.

Through the PAF personnel’s collective efforts, the President said he expects to attain the country’s goal of creating a world-class air force that keeps the peace and contributes to national development and regional security.

At the same time, he expressed confidence that under the leadership of PAF’s 39th commanding general, Major General Stephen Parreño, the Air Force will sustain its ongoing initiatives and achieve new heights in responsive service delivery for the country and the people.

The President recognized the accomplishments of the PAF under the leadership of Lt. General Canlas and extended his gratitude to the outgoing Air Force official for establishing a more dependable and capable air force that protects the nation’s airspace.

Congratulating Lt. General Canlas for his successful stint as the 38th commanding general of PAF, the President said the country saw a credible and responsive Air Force made possible through intensive modernization efforts, improvement of integrated air defense system, as well as regular conduct of aerial intelligence and reconnaissance missions.

PAF also successfully conducted humanitarian assistance and disaster response activities and launched the Flight Plan 2040, Marcos added.

“I am proud and I am grateful to you, along with the members of the Philippine Air Force and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, for your invaluable efforts to secure our people and our country,” President Marcos said.

The chief executive also lauded the efforts of the men and women of the Air Force for guarding the Philippine aerial domain and for assisting in the delivery of basic services to Filipinos, in close collaboration with other government agencies and private stakeholders. #