PAF’s new defense assets vital in protecting Philippines – Marcos

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos emphasized yesterday the importance of modernizing the military, saying the country’s armed forces should be equipped for any eventuality amid geopolitical tensions.

“With terrorism and external security threats brought by geopolitical tensions looming around us, around the Asia-Pacific region and around the world, it is imperative that we continue to equip and empower ourselves in whatever capacity we are able,” Marcos said at the turnover of the ground-based air defense system and C-295 aircraft in Pampanga.

“While we strive to live in peace with others, it is still crucial that our Armed Forces be modernized so that it is ready for all eventualities. It is for this reason that we strengthen our country’s capabilities in territorial defense, counterterrorism and internal security,” he added.

Marcos said keeping the country’s defense systems updated with the latest technology fortifies the nation’s capabilities to provide humanitarian assistance and respond immediately in times of calamities and disasters.

“It is also worth noting that, for government and business operations to continue without fault or interruption, there is a need to protect all our critical infrastructure – and our modernization addresses such a need,” he added.

The ground-based defense system, unveiled by Marcos, was acquired from Israeli firm Rafael Advance Defense Systems. The C-295 aircraft was acquired from Spanish company Airbus Defense and Space.

Marcos lauded Air Force personnel for serving the country and assured them that his administration remains a “steadfast partner” in performing their mission.

“We see and we recognize the sacrifices that you make to preserve peace and security for our country, and this administration will remain your steadfast partner in accomplishing this, as you have been loyal to your calling throughout the years, so shall we be loyal to you,” he said.

The acquisition of the ground-based air defense systems and the C-295 aircraft and the delivery of FA-50PH jets would make a “very big difference” in uplifting the Air Force’s capabilities to promote security, the President said.

“As we accept and bless the new Ground Based Air Defense Systems and the C-295 aircraft, I call upon our Philippine Air Force personnel to continue performing their duties. May you remain as the bastions of freedom that our ancestors have fought for and of the peace that we unceasingly have worked hard for generations to gain,” Marcos added.

The President also thanked Israel and Spain for helping the Philippines bolster its defense systems to safeguard its sovereignty.

“I believe that this is a clear testament of our strong defense relations – one that we can develop – as their excellencies mentioned, in other areas besides defense,” he said.