DAVAO CITY — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially welcomed Lieutenant General Arthur M. Cordura as the new Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) during the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony held Thursday. The event also honored the service of outgoing PAF chief, Lieutenant General Stephen P. Parreño.
In his speech, President Marcos expressed full trust and confidence in Lieutenant General Cordura’s ability to lead the Air Force toward greater responsiveness and credibility amid evolving security challenges.
“As we bid farewell to Lieutenant General Parreño’s distinguished tenure, we now warmly congratulate the newly appointed Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force, Lieutenant General Arthur Cordura,” President Marcos said.
“The road ahead is not without its challenges, but I am confident that you will rise to meet those challenges. With your steadfast leadership, you can guide the Air Force towards becoming an institution that is more agile, credible, and responsive to the demands of an ever-evolving security landscape,” he added.
The President also urged the men and women of the Philippine Air Force to uphold their commitment to honor, duty, and excellence under their new leader’s guidance, emphasizing the need for vigilance and determination in carrying out their responsibilities.
“To the men and women of the Philippine Air Force, your service is a source of immense pride for our country. Under this new leadership, may you continue to reach even greater heights, embodying the principles of honor, duty, and excellence,” President Marcos said.
“These times call for vigilance and resolve. There is no room for complacency,” he stressed.
The Chief Executive also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the continued modernization of the Armed Forces, ensuring that they remain equipped to protect the nation and its people effectively.
“We must ensure that the continued modernization of our Armed Forces remains a priority, empowering us to protect the ideals that define our nation,” President Marcos concluded.