CLARK AIR BASE, Pampanga (PIA) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to continue developing capabilities in conducting maintenance and repair.
“Maintenance and repair are key aspects of our operations as well as important decision points in the acquisition of additional assets. I therefore direct PAF and 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,” he told military officials during his inspection of the recommissioned C-130T aircraft at Haribon Hangar in Clark Air Base, Pampanga.
Marcos also recognized 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.
The Commander-In-Chief 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 PAF in conducting various missions, especially involving humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.
Likewise, Marcos expressed optimism on the C-130T aircraft with tail number 5011, which was installed with an internal Special Airborne Mission Installation and Response System, 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,” he said.
Aside from inspecting the C130T aircraft, Marcos also witnessed the capability demonstration of the Hermes 900 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and C208B Grand Caravan EX.
The President likewise acknowledged PAF for presenting him with an Honorary Gold Wing Award.
“It inspires me to be counted among the esteemed list of awardees who have received this honorable distinction,” he said. (CLJD-PIA 3)
