Philippine Air Force Shifts Focus to Territorial Defense Operations

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has shifted its mindset to territorial defense as it celebrates its 78th founding anniversary, its commander said on Tuesday.

Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, in his speech at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, said this transformation was made when President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier challenged the Air Force to 'realign and sharpen our focus towards territorial defense.'

'Across our vast and porous archipelago, your Air Force has risen to that call, flying and defending our airspace and territorial integrity. More importantly, we transitioned mindset, posturing from internal security operations to territorial defense operations,' he said.

Cordura also said they are advancing their capabilities in surveillance, precision strike, advanced systems, and integrated air defense, vowing to 'earnestly work' for the adoption of space capabilities.

Aside from these, he said, the PAF is also evolving its doctrines, force structure, and strategic partnerships to ensure that it remains relevant and decisive in times of peace and crisis.

'But more than platforms and systems, it is our values that propel us forward: integrity, service above self, teamwork, excellence, and professionalism. These remain our true strength, along with our commitment to do good governance, pursuit of a stronger safety culture, and unshakeable warrior ethos,' Cordura said. (PNA)