FLORIDABLANCA, Pampanga (PIA) -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. affirmed the country’s bolstered defense systems with the acquisition of new Rafael SPYDER (surface-to-air python and derby) ground-based air defense system (GBADS) and C-295 Medium Lift Aircraft.
 
In today’s Acceptance, Turn-over and Blessing Ceremony of GBADS and C-295 at Basa Air Base, Marcos stressed the big difference that the assets can make in uplifting the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) capabilities in protecting the nation against internal and external threats.
 
“With terrorism and external security threats brought by geopolitical tensions looming around us, around the Asia-Pacific region, and around the world, it is imperative that we continue to equip and empower ourselves in whatever capacity we are able,” he said.
 
The President cited that peace and security can be maintained through the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in territorial defense, counter-terrorism, internal security, among others.
 
He added that updated defense systems fortify the country’s capabilities to respond to calamities, and to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
 
“It is also worth noting that, for government and business operations to continue without fault or interruption, there is a need to protect all our critical infrastructure — and our modernization addresses such a need,” Marcos explained.
 
Meanwhile, he extended his deepest gratitude to Israel and Spain for the strong defense relations and their support in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty.
 
He also lauded PAF for the newly-acquired air and ground assets, and their steadfast service to promote and preserve peace and security.
 
“As we accept and bless the new Ground-Based Air Defense System and the C-295 Aircraft, I call upon our Philippine Air Force personnel to continue performing their duties. May you remain as the bastions of freedom that our ancestors have fought for and of the peace that we unceasingly have worked hard for generations to gain,” he noted.
 
GBADS and C-295 were a product of the Horizon 2 of the AFP Modernization Program. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)