President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted the critical role of the Philippine Air Force’s 250th Presidential Airlift Wing (PAW) in enabling rapid disaster response and relief operations across the country.
Speaking on Wednesday, September 2, at the unit’s 58th founding anniversary at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, the President commended the unit following his aerial inspection of flood-affected provinces in Central Luzon.
The Chief Executive recognized the air mobility unit as an indispensable asset to the presidency and government operations.
“I still believe that it is for a President and for the First Family, this must be the one of the greatest assets that we have to use to be able to do our duty,” Marcos stated.
He shared how the wing’s air assets allowed him to visit multiple disaster-stricken provinces within a single day.
“Because, like today, today I spent most of today – before coming here, we were flying. We went to Tarlac, we went to Zambales, we went to Pampanga. And, I would not be able to do that if it was not for the capabilities of the Special Mission Wing, of this Wing, of the 250th,” he added.
Marcos emphasized that the unit’s mission extends far beyond executive transport, acting as a crucial bridge to vulnerable communities in times of crisis.
“In these missions, you do more than just provide transportation. You help the government reach our people when they need us most,” the President stressed.
As the primary air mobility unit responsible for transporting the President, the First Family, visiting foreign dignitaries, and high-ranking officials, the 250th PAW serves as a vital operational asset.
“If you think that bringing me safely to a destination is already an accomplishment, that is only the beginning,” Marcos said.
“Dahil sa husay ninyo, nakararating ako kaagad sa mga kababayan natin na nangangailangan ng tulong at kalinga,” he emphasized.
Reflecting on past disaster relief operations, including recent visits to Pampanga, Cebu, and Sarangani, Marcos pointed out how air mobility delivers direct assistance and hope to affected citizens.
“So, when floods and communities, for example are isolated, you help bring us closer to the families that are waiting for assistance. When earthquakes damages homes and shakes people’s spirit, you carry relief and hope for them to carry on,” he noted.
Directing his remarks to the personnel, affectionately known as “Bluebirds,” Marcos praised their commitment, skill, and operational execution.
“So, to our Bluebirds: the aircraft may carry the mission, but it is your discipline and your teamwork that make each operation possible and make each operation successful,” he said.
He concluded by urging the wing to maintain its high standards of discipline and continue serving the nation with purpose.