‘PAF weakened by corruption’

CLARK FIELD, Pampanga, Philippines – President Aquino yesterday took a swipe at previous administrations for supposedly neglecting the armed forces’ modernization program.

The air force that used to be viewed as one of the strongest in the region had deteriorated because of bad governance, Aquino lamented.

“It is saddening to think about the state of the Air Force that we saw. It seems that what used to be viewed as one of the strongest air forces in Asia can no longer take off because of decades of corruption, greed and lack of attention,” Aquino said in a speech during the Philippine Air Force (PAF)’s 67th anniversary celebration here.

“It seems that the state of the Air Force mirrored the serious condition of our society because of crooked governance,” he added.

Aquino said former Air Force chief Lauro de la Cruz had informed him about the government’s failure to provide military pilots the appropriate flying suits.

“Members of the Air Force had to buy (flying suits) from places like Dau in Pampanga or Quiapo in Manila. They bought suits for crewmen, which is not the appropriate attire,” the President said.

“We won’t let that happen again. Members of the Air Force do not need to worry about their uniform. The government is doing its duty to you,” he added.

Aquino highlighted the aggressive military upgrade efforts under his administration, saying this was made possible by good governance.

“Under the straight path, our aim is to correct bad governance so we can achieve success, which is the mark of our Air Force,” Aquino said.

“This prodded us to push for meaningful reforms in our armed forces. In the last four years, we maximized our opportunity to push for the modernization among your ranks,” he added.

Aquino said the Air Force already has three functioning C-130 cargo planes and has acquired 18 basic trainer aircraft, eight Sokol combat utility helicopters and 20 upgraded MD-520 MG helicopters.

The Air Force has also received four UH-1 helicopters and is awaiting the delivery of 17 more this year.

The government is also planning to acquire eight combat utility helicopters, two long-range patrol aircraft, six close-air support aircraft and radar systems.

Next year, the Air Force will receive two of the 12 lead in fighter trainer jets from South Korea to strengthen the patrolling operations of the country’s air space. Delivery of the P18.9-billion fighter jets is expected to be completed in 2017.

Aquino also thanked the Air Force for its dedication to serve the country especially during calamities and typhoons, as well as man-made calamities like the Zamboanga City siege last year.

“In the face of challenges and danger, you never retreated and failed. Instead, you chose to do whatever you can,” the President said.

Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado, for his part, thanked the President for supporting the armed forces’ upgrade program and vowed to continue fulfilling their mission.

“Mr. President, rest assured that your unwavering concern to the Air Force will further strengthen our resolve to live up to our sworn vow to faithfully perform our duty and dedicate our lives for our country,” Delgado said. – Ric Sapnu