CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City — In celebration of the 78th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) on July 1, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. issued a statement honoring the dedication, professionalism, and valor of the country’s airmen and airwomen.
General Brawner highlighted the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to national defense and reiterated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s strong support for the AFP’s ongoing modernization efforts and the continuous improvement of personnel welfare.
Drawing from his personal experience as a military aviator, General Brawner recounted his time flying Navy AW109 helicopters, acknowledging the immense privilege and inherent risks that come with serving in the skies. He also reflected on a sobering moment on July 4, 2021, when the C-130 aircraft he had previously flown tragically crashed in Jolo, resulting in the loss of more than 50 service members.
Amid the tragedy, General Brawner praised the extraordinary leadership of then-Battalion Commander Charlotte Valdez, who led a swift and compassionate response—locating the fallen and assisting the injured within just 12 hours. He described this effort as a true expression of “bayanihan in uniform.”
He also reaffirmed the PAF as a steadfast symbol of vigilance, sacrifice, and service.
“The peace we enjoy, both above and on the ground, is the result of your vigilance, valor, and selflessness,” the AFP Chief of Staff said.
Addressing the PAF personnel directly, he called them “guardians of the skies—heroes in flight.”
Further, General Brawner echoed the message of PAF Commanding General LtGen Arthur M. Cordura, emphasizing that it is not only advanced platforms or equipment that define the Air Force but its core values: integrity, service above self, teamwork, excellence, and professionalism.
He also underscored what truly powers the PAF and the AFP as a whole.
“The future of air power is not built solely on hardware but on ‘heartware’—the unwavering dedication and spirit of every man and woman who wears the wings,” Gen. Brawner said.
This piece serves as both a tribute and a reminder of the vital role the Philippine Air Force plays in safeguarding the nation—driven by courage, character, and the unyielding spirit of its heroes in flight.
Read the full column here: https://opinion.inquirer.net/.../beyond-the-clouds-our...
