Clark Air Base, Pampanga
February 12, 2021
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte reaffirmed his administration’s commitment in safeguarding the welfare of the Filipino people and underscored the government’s extensive efforts to strengthen the capabilities and competence of the country’s military in protecting the sovereignty of the nation.
This came after the President’s inspection of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) newly delivered air assets at the Clark Air Base in Pampanga where he recognized this significant milestone as a boost in the military’s mission to maintain peace and order in the land.
The air assets displayed at the Haribon Hangar included one (1) unit of C-130H, six (6) units of S70i Blackhawk Utility Helicopters, six (6) units of A-29B Super Tucanos, six (6) units of Hermes 900 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and four (4) units of Hermes 450 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
“I am thus glad to join all of you today as we laud the many accomplishments of our men and women in uniform who have consistently shown dedication and excellence in serving our motherland,” President Duterte said.
The Commander-in-Chief also commended the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for their continuous efforts in successfully procuring additional government air assets that would play an indispensable role in protecting the country.
“Recently, I have approved the proposal to acquire more combat utility helicopters for the AFP. With our recent gains againts various terror groups, I am confident that our efforts under the AFP Modernization Program are already paying off,” he added.
Likewise, President Duterte promised that his administration shall remain steadfast in doing its best to ensure the well-being of every Filipino, especially the families of those who sacrificed their lives in serving the country.
“Together, let us remain partners in protecting the life and liberty of all Filipinos and the sovereignty of our nation,” the President said.
Aside from the inspection of air assets, the President witnessed the ceremonial distribution of food packs to a number of beneficiaries and the conferment of the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kamagi to selected awardees from the PAF, Philippine Army (PA) and Philippine Navy (PN).
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