Clark Air Base, Pampanga
March 31, 2023

“We are very serious in upgrading the capabilities, especially of the Air Force as they constitute the first line of defense and with the situation that we are facing now, over the West Philippine Sea. The best information — the best intelligence that we can get is being provided by the Air Force,” stated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. following his inspection of the recommissioned C-130T Aircrafts at Clark Air Base, Pampanga.

Speaking before the uniformed personnel of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), the President underscored the importance of modernizing the PAF’s air assets and capabilities to address the growing tensions in the region, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.

“The administration is committed to the continuing modernization of our military, the continuing improvement of the capabilities of our men and women in the military and to give all the tools that are necessary for you to fulfill your mission, for you to do the job that the rest of the Philippines, the rest of Filipinos are counting on and that is to protect the Republic,” said the Commander in Chief.

Referring to AFP modernization as ‘playing catch-up’, President Marcos Jr. assured them that the government is in full swing to do all it can to provide the Armed Forces with the necessary tools and equipment to defend the country’s sovereignty.

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