Clark Air Base, Pampanga
March 31, 2023
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to continue developing their capabilities of conducting maintenance and repair during his inspection of the recommissioned C-130T Aircrafts at the Haribon Hangar in Clark Air Base, Pampanga.
“Maintenance and repair are key aspects of our operations as well as important decision points in the acquisition of additional assets. I therefore direct our Philippine Air Force and the AFP to continue in developing your capabilities of conducting maintenance and repair to keep all our military assets ready to go. Conduct routinary check-up and regular engineering services for added safety requirements, and provide extensive training to those who will be flying and using it,” the Commander in Chief said.
He also recognized the Governments of the United States and Portugal for their support in enhancing the Philippines’ air transport, defense and disaster response capabilities, calling it a testament of partnership.
“I am certain that our partners will be more than willing to aid us in developing your capabilities and in making the necessary investments to ensure that we achieve our shared goals for our country and for this region,” he added.
President Marcos Jr. also expressed enthusiasm with the timely return of the C130T aircraft with Tail Number 5040, which was ferried back to the Philippines on February 26, 2023 after undergoing extensive repair and maintenance in Portugal in January 2021. He added that the recommissioned aircraft will help the PAF in conducting various missions, especially involving humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.
Likewise, he expressed optimism on the C-130T aircraft with Tail Number 5011, which was installed with an internal Special Airborne Mission Installation and Response (SABIR) System, together with the Hermes 900 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and the C208B Grand Caravan EX, for it will help the country in conducting aerial surveys during times of natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
“Just like how the C130T is designed for a wide-range of missions — from day-to-day peaceful operations to hectic times of crisis — may you also endure all the challenges that come your way and face them with vigor, and courage and duty. Remain steadfast as you continue to perform your duties, especially in the crucial role as our country’s first line of defense against external security threats,” President Marcos Jr. said.
During his visit, PAF Commanding General Lieutenant General Stephen P. Parreño presented the Commander in Chief with an honorary PAF Gold Wing Award, which symbolizes the highest state of military flying professionalism and dedication.
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