Tactical Operations Wing West, Philippine Air Force

09/10/2026

PAF NEWS | PAF, JASDF BOOST HADR INTEROPERABILITY IN 6TH DOSHIN-BAYANIHAN

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) officially concluded the 6th iteration of Doshin-Bayanihan with a Closing Ceremony held on October 8, 2026, at Brigadier General Benito N Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

Throughout the exercise, PAF and JASDF personnel conducted bilateral air mobility and aircrew training activities using C-130 aircraft, strengthening coordination and interoperability in air operations. The exercise also featured mass casualty management, aeromedical evacuation, and tactical evacuation drills to enhance joint capabilities in casualty response during humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) missions.

The successful completion of Doshin-Bayanihan 6-26 underscores the enduring defense partnership between the Philippines and Japan, reinforcing bilateral interoperability and collective readiness to respond to humanitarian emergencies and disasters.

06/10/2026

𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗜𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗪𝗘𝗦𝗖𝗢𝗠 🌊 | Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. today emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong and meaningful tri-service presence in Palawan, particularly in support of territorial defense, internal security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and the protection of the country’s resources.

During his visit to the AFP Western Command (WESCOM), he also called on the troops to draw on Filipino talent and ingenuity in responding to the unique challenges in their area of responsibility. He also reminded the troops that their mission is ultimately for the Filipino people, saying that the AFP, DND, and partner agencies must work to bring “sustainable development and sustainable gains for the Filipinos” and future generations.

The Defense Chief, together with AFP Chief of Staff General Antonio G Nafarrete, was received by key officials of WESCOM, led by Commander Vice Admiral Alan M Javier.

30/09/2026

HONORING A HERO: LTC ANTONIO M. BAUTISTA PAF
LTC BAUTISTA was a distinguished PAF fighter pilot and Squadron Commander of the 9th Tactical Fighter Squadron under the 5th Fighter Wing. On 11 January 1974, he led an airstrike in support of Philippine government forces in Parang, Jolo, Sulu, where he was killed in action. For his heroism, he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star. In honor of his courage and lasting legacy, the PAF air base in Palawan was named Antonio Bautista Air Base (ABAB).
On 19 January 2024, Tactical Operations Wing West conducted the unveiling of the LTC BAUTISTA Gallery at Antonio Bautista Air Base in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. The gallery displayed his uniforms, photographs, and personal belongings. Then Wing Commander BGEN ERICK Q. ESCARCHA PAF, led the ceremony.
On 17 September 2026, the Philippine Air Force inaugurated and blessed the bust of LTC BAUTISTA Monument at Headquarters, 570th Air Base Group in ABAB. The ceremony was attended by his widow, Ms. Alice Jane Rigor Bautista, his son, Mr. Anthony James Bautista, other family members and PAF personnel, and was led by LTGEN ARTHUR M. CORDURA, PAF, Commanding General, Philippine Air Force.
From his early years as a fighter pilot to his final mission and the enduring recognition of his legacy, LTC BAUTISTA continues to be remembered for the dedication he gave to his country and the lasting impact he made on the Philippine Air Force.
We remember. We honor. We carry on.
Photo Credit to: Sir Anthony James Rigor Bautista
Thanks for some of the photos Sir.

20/07/2026

READ | 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

The latest act of violence and harassment committed by the China Coast Guard against Philippine Navy personnel stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal adds to a clear pattern of provocative and hostile behavior, and further contributes to the People’s Republic of China’s deficit of trust and credibility.

Against the backdrop of the PRC’s circumvention of international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and disregard of the final and binding 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling on the South China Sea, their actions further justify the Department’s position of disengagement—we simply cannot trust this belligerent neighbor.

The professionalism and resolve shown by our military personnel compel us to strengthen our resolve, build up our deterrence, shore up our alliances, and bolster our national commitment to safeguard what is rightfully ours.

As we continue to monitor and prepare measures to meet this aggression, the Department of National Defense salutes the defenders of BRP Sierra Madre and our western frontier. We will not back down.

‘Di tayo pasisiil!

READ | 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

The latest act of violence and harassment committed by the China Coast Guard against Philippine Navy personnel stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal adds to a clear pattern of provocative and hostile behavior, and further contributes to the People’s Republic of China’s deficit of trust and credibility.

Against the backdrop of the PRC’s circumvention of international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and disregard of the final and binding 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling on the South China Sea, their actions further justify the Department’s position of disengagement—we simply cannot trust this belligerent neighbor.

The professionalism and resolve shown by our military personnel compel us to strengthen our resolve, build up our deterrence, shore up our alliances, and bolster our national commitment to safeguard what is rightfully ours.

As we continue to monitor and prepare measures to meet this aggression, the Department of National Defense salutes the defenders of BRP Sierra Madre and our western frontier. We will not back down.

‘Di tayo pasisiil!

20/07/2026

⁨READ: AFP Statement on the Aggressive Actions of China Coast Guard in Ayungin Shoal




🫡🇵🇭⁩

16/07/2026

WATCH: The National Walk of Peace: "Alay Lakad para sa Dagat" held on 12 July 2026 at the Quirino Grandstand in Ermita, Manila, marking the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award on the West Philippine Sea (WPS)

14/07/2026

🇵🇭 United for the West Philippine Sea

The Tactical Operations Wing West joined the flag-raising ceremony on Pag-asa Island in commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award, led by Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr.

The ceremony was attended by the delegation from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, headed by Western Command Commander, Vice Admiral Alan M Javier PN, alongside representatives from the Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, the local government unit, and residents of Pag-asa Island.

Brigadier General Jose Johnson T Grayda PAF, Wing Commander of TOW West, joined the activity in reaffirming the nation's unwavering commitment to protecting the country's sovereignty and sovereign rights, supporting resilient island communities, and upholding a rules-based international order.

13/07/2026

10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE 2016 SOUTH CHINA SEA ARBITRAL AWARD | "Legal clarity gave us our standing. Strategic unity builds our strength."
A decade after the landmark 2016 Arbitral Award, the Philippines continues to uphold international law while strengthening its defense capabilities and fostering partnerships that contribute to peace, security, and stability in the maritime domain.

13/07/2026

Our fisherfolk are the heartbeat of the West Philippine Sea. 🇵🇭
Out here, maritime safety isn’t just a protocol—it’s a shared promise to stand side by side as one community. From sharing a handshake to providing unwavering support, we are dedicated to ensuring that no Filipino sails alone.
Together, we are securing our seas and fueling our nation.

13/07/2026

The Philippine Air Force remains vigilant in safeguarding our skies and supporting the protection of our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippine Air Force remains vigilant in safeguarding our skies and supporting the protection of our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.