Intensify drive vs lawlessness, PAF told

I now enjoin our troops to sustain the fight against terrorism and other acts of lawlessness under the leadership of the PAF’s new Commanding General

President Rodrigo Duterte has once again called on members of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to intensify its operations against terrorists and other lawless groups operating in the country.

The Chief Executive made the call as he led the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the PAF gym in Villamor Air Base. Pasay City Thursday.

Major General Allen T. Paredes formally assumed command as the new PAF Commanding General replacing the already retired Lt. Gen. Rozzano D. Briguez, who has been appointed by the President as head of the exploration division of the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC).

“I now enjoin our troops to sustain the fight against terrorism and other acts of lawlessness under the leadership of the PAF’s new Commanding General, Major General Allen T. Paredes. Under his direction and guidance, I hope that you will embody strength and fortitude in ensuring lasting peace in our homeland,” the President said.

The President, in his speech, assured the men and women of PAF that his administration will continue to boost their morale, efficiency, and responsiveness through continuous capacity building and other meritorious initiatives.

On modernization, the President said that PAF will receive substantial assets under the Second Horizon of the Revised AFP Modernization Program.

“Rest assured that our country is behind you as you bravely soar to greater heights in order to secure genuine and lasting peace for the benefit of the Filipinos,” he said.

President Duterte commended the PAF for its invaluable contributions and accomplishments in the areas of internal security operations, disaster response, as well as its strong support to law enforcement and peacekeeping efforts.

He said PAF played a crucial role in the nation’s internal security operations by providing air assets, assistance in air and ground operations and close personnel support to ground troops, most especially during engagements against the Abu Sayyaf and other terrorist groups.

The Chief Executive also praised Briguez for his outstanding tour of duty as the commanding general of PAF and for his years of distinguished service.

“General Briguez, we thank you for your trailblazing leadership that further enabled the PAF to fulfill its vital role in our whole-ofnation approach towards achieving security and inclusive development of our country,” he told the outgoing PAF chief, whose retirement ceremony was also held during Thursday’s event.

Government and military officials present during the activity include Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana Senator Bong Go; and Lieutenant General Felimon Santos, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Paredes, who is a member of Philippine Military Academy “Maringal” Class of 1988, formerly held the position as commander of the PAF’s Air Logistics Command based in Clark Air Base, Angeles City, Pampanga.

Paredes is the 37th Commanding General of PAF.

In a phone interview, Major Aristides Galang, PAF spokesman, described Paredes as competent and an outstanding officer who is very much capable of leading the

18,000 plus-strong service command.