The Philippine Air Force (PAF) demonstrated its aerial capabilities by conducting routine exercises at the Luneta Park in Manila on Wednesday, June 8.
Lt. Col. Maynard Mariano, PAF spokesperson, said the drills were held as part of the Air Force’s preparation for the celebration of the 124th Independence Day on June 12.
“We are showing the Filipino people that we dominate our own airspace without contest. This symbolizes freedom,” Mariano told the Manila Bulletin.
The PAF’s FA-50 light jet fighters practiced its routine as it will participate in a high-speed opener pass on June 12 to kick off the Independence Day flag-raising ceremony to be led by President Duterte.
Meanwhile, A-29B Super Tucano light attack aircraft, T-129 ATAK helicopters, S-70i Black Hawk helicopters, and an AgustaWestland AW-109 attack helicopter will participate in a flyby exercise.
The air assets were all procured by the government in the past six years, and it will be the first time that they will be showcased in a flyby exercise since the onset of the pandemic.
Spectators in Manila could not help but express their admiration to the PAF’s capabilities as they were treated to the aerial show.