Philippine Air Force Civil-Military Operations Group

AFP Welcomes Strong Public Support for Assertive West Philippine Sea Posture

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed its gratitude to the Filipino people following the release of the latest Tugon ng Masa (TNM) nationwide survey conducted by OCTA Research from March 19 to 25, 2026, which found that 72 percent of adult Filipinos support a more assertive Philippine posture in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The findings further showed that majority of adult Filipinos are familiar with current developments in the WPS. Across major areas, familiarity was highest in the National Capital Region at 79 percent, while regional awareness peaked in MIMAROPA at 100 percent, followed by Western Visayas at 94 percent, Caraga at 88 percent, and CALABARZON at 82 percent.

Notably, the survey also revealed that expanded naval and troop presence ranks highest among public preferences, reflecting strong support for a three-pillar strategy anchored on territorial assertion, diplomacy, and AFP modernization which highlights a clear and enduring national consensus on safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.

The AFP expresses its gratitude for the continued support of the Filipino people and reassures the nation of its unwavering commitment to its mandate by strengthening its capabilities, supporting diplomatic initiatives, and upholding a rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea in pursuit of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future for all Filipinos.





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PAF NEWS | PAF HOLDS SAFETY SUMMIT 2026 TO STRENGTHEN SAFETY CULTURE AND OPERATIONAL READINESS

The Philippine Air Force (PAF), through the Air Force Safety Office, conducted the PAF Safety Summit AY-2026 with the Commanding General PAF, Lieutenant General Arthur M Cordura PAF as the Guest of Honor at the PAF Firing Range, Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, on June 2, 2026, as part of the pre-anniversary activities for the PAF’s upcoming 79th Founding Anniversary. The summit gathered personnel from various PAF units and partner organizations to reinforce safety awareness and operational excellence.

The Safety Forum featured discussions on Safety Management System best practices and Crew Resource Management, safety leadership and human factors, occupational safety and health with emphasis on mental wellness in the workplace, and modern Crew Resource Management through NOTECHS(Non-Technical Skills). The topics highlighted the importance of proactive risk management, effective communication, teamwork, leadership, mental resilience, and strict adherence to safety procedures in sustaining mission readiness and preventing mishaps. Open forum sessions followed each presentation, allowing participants to exchange insights and discuss practical applications relevant to their respective duties.

The event concluded with a 1st Semester Recognition of Aeronautical Achievements CY-2026 and CG, PAF Flight Safety Awards and Trophies. In his message, Lieutenant General Cordura emphasized the importance of a strong safety culture, stating that “safety is inseparable from readiness and operational excellence.” He underscored that operational excellence is achieved only when safety is embedded in the PAF’s systems, leadership, and daily mindset.��

PAF NEWS | CG, PAF PAYS COURTESY CALL ON WESTMINCOM, ENGAGES WITH AIRCREW AT EDWIN ANDREWS AIR BASE

Lieutenant General Arthur M Cordura PAF, Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force, paid a courtesy call on Lieutenant General Donald M Gumiran PA, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, underscoring continued collaboration in support of joint operations and security efforts within the Western Mindanao Area of Responsibility on June 1, 2026.

Following the courtesy call, LtGen Cordura proceeded to Edwin Andrews Air Base where he engaged with pilots as well as air and ground crew assigned in support of WESMINCOM operations. The interaction provided an opportunity to convey guidance, emphasize the importance of operational safety and mission readiness, recognize the dedication of personnel, and reaffirm the standards of professionalism necessary in the conduct of air operations.

The engagement highlights the Philippine Air Force’s commitment to maintaining a strong leadership presence in the field, fostering closer coordination with force employers, and enhancing the responsiveness of air operations to operational requirements. It also reinforces the PAF’s role as a reliable force provider, ensuring that air assets and personnel remain mission-ready in support of joint operations and national security objectives.�

AFP Strengthens Commitment to Transformation and Excellence at Flag-raising ceremony
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) began the month of June with a reaffirmation of its commitment to excellence and institutional transformation during the flag-raising ceremony held today, here. The ceremony was presided over by AFP Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Rommel P Roldan, who also led the awarding of recognitions under the AFP Transformation Roadmap Institutionalization Pathway (AFPTRIP).
The AFP Gender and Development (GAD) Office received the Copper Anahaw Leaf Appurtenance for AFPTRIP Initiation Status in recognition of its successful formulation of strategies and establishment of the tools, mechanisms, systems, and processes necessary to support the AFP's transformation initiatives.
As the AFP begins the month of June, the ceremony reflect its continuing efforts to strengthen governance, foster innovation, and uphold its mandate of serving the Filipino people with professionalism, integrity and organizational excellence.
Photos by SSg Ambay PA / PAOAFP




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PAF NEWS | PAF CHIEF LEADS AIR COMBAT COMMAND’S 6TH FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
The Philippine Air Force celebrated the 6th Founding Anniversary of the Air Combat Command with the Commanding General, PAF, Lieutenant General Arthur M Cordura PAF as the Guest of Honor and Speaker on June 1, 2026. Centered on the theme, “ACC@6: Mission-Oriented, Capability-Driven Combatants and Focused Warriors Anchored in Values,” the event highlighted the command’s contributions to strengthening the PAF’s combat readiness and operational effectiveness.
A key part of the celebration was the presentation of awards and recognitions to outstanding units and personnel whose exemplary performance contributed to the accomplishment of ACC’s mission.
In his address, LtGen Cordura lauded ACC’s continued growth and adaptability in meeting evolving operational demands, emphasizing its commitment to modernization, innovation, and mission accomplishment. He also recognized the dedication and professionalism of its personnel and encouraged them to continue pursuing excellence through rigorous training, integrity-driven leadership, purposeful innovation, and unwavering discipline.��

PAF NEWS | PAF JOINS ROYAL BRUNEI ARMED FORCES 65TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WITH AIRCRAFT STATIC DISPLAY
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) participated in the 65th Anniversary Celebration of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces through an aircraft static display held at Rimba Air Force Base on May 31 to June 1, 2026.
The PAF deployed its FA-50PH light combat aircraft from the 5th Fighter Wing’s 6th Tactical Fighter Squadron to showcase the Philippine Air Force’s growing air defense capabilities and commitment to regional defense cooperation.
The participation highlights the strong and enduring defense ties between the Philippines and Brunei, while providing an opportunity for both air forces to strengthen professional exchanges, and foster mutual understanding among military personnel and partner nations.
The aircraft static display drew the interest of military officials, foreign delegates, and members of the public attending the anniversary celebration, offering a closer look at one of the PAF’s air assets and its role in safeguarding Philippine airspace.
Through its participation in international military engagements, the Philippine Air Force continues to advance defense diplomacy, strengthen partnerships with regional counterparts, and contribute to promoting peace, stability, and cooperation in the region.
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PAF NEWS | PAF CADET GRADUATES FROM UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) congratulates Cadet First Class Dans Uriel Bacalso Ferrer, a native of Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, for graduating from the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado, USA on May 28, 2026.

Cadet First Class Ferrer completed a four-year Bachelor of Science in Foreign Area Studies under the Military Strategic Studies track focused on Asia. He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “SIKLAB-LAYA” Class of 2025 and was selected under the Foreign Pre-Commission Training Institution Program, which enables qualified cadets to undergo education and training in partner military institutions.

His completion of the program reflects the continuing value of defense cooperation in developing future military leaders equipped with broader strategic understanding, professional competence, and exposure to allied training systems.

Upon formally joining the Philippine Air Force, Cadet First Class Ferrer is expected to contribute to the organization’s continuing efforts to develop mission-ready personnel, strengthen interoperability, and support the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

AFP, US Forces Sharpen Interoperability in Maritime Security Activity
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in partnership with the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), successfully conducted a Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the vicinity waters of Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea from May 26 to 30, 2026.
The 3rd PH-US MCA this year was participated by Philippine assets including the BRP Antonio Luna (FFG15), AW109 helicopter, FA-50 fighter aircrafts, and Sokol aircraft. The Philippine Coast Guard deployed the BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702), while USINDOPACOM participated with the USCGC Midgett (WMSL-757) and an MH-65 helicopter.
During the five-day activity, allied forces conducted a series of maritime exercises, including Search and Rescue (SAR), Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS), Maritime Law Enforcement Training, Rotary Wing Deck Landing Qualifications (DLQ), Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP), and Communication Exercises (COMMEX).
The successful conduct of the recent MCA reflects the enduring commitment of the Philippines and the United States to deepen defense cooperation, strengthen maritime domain awareness, and uphold a rules-based international order.
Photos by: North Luzon Naval Command




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