LIEUTENANT General Arthur M. Cordura PAF, Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), conducted a significant two-day field visit to Antonio Bautista Air Base (ABAB) in Palawan and the Pag-asa Island from January 14 to 15, 2025, underscoring the PAF’s commitment to national security and the well-being of its personnel.
During the activity, LtGen Cordura was warmly welcomed by the ABAB personnel, led by BGen Erick Q Escarcha PAF, Wing Commander of Tactical Operations Wing West (TOWWEST).
The Commanding General toured various facilities at ABAB and engaged personally with the troops stationed there. During the visit, he presented the PAF’s command thrust, “FOCUS PAF,” outlining his strategic vision for the Air Force. This framework emphasizes Mission Essential Tasks (METL) as the core of operational readiness and defines the critical steps necessary for establishing a robust Integrated Air Defense System (IADS). Further, the PAF Chief visited Balabac Island, a strategic Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) site within the area of responsibility of the TOWWEST that plays a significant role in bolstering the country’s defense capabilities, promoting regional security, and facilitating cooperation in humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
Following the visit to ABAB, the PAF Chief visited Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea. This visit served to reaffirm the PAF’s unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s sovereignty. He inspected the island’s facilities and interacted with the deployed troops, boosting their morale and reinforcing their vital mission. Likewise, LTGEN CORDURA brought smiles and hope to the residents of Pag-asa Island by leading a gift-giving activity and distributing food packs to the children.
With the series of field visits, the PAF showcases its commitment to ensuring the readiness and welfare of its personnel while strengthening their mission to serve the country and its people, particularly in strategically important areas like Palawan and the West Philippine Sea.
Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the Philippine Air Force Facebook Page.
