The Philippine Air Force mourns the passing of BGEN MAXIMA “EMMA” OXIMOSO IGNACIO PAF (Ret), one of the first female pilots it has ever produced and the first female PAF regular officer to attain the star rank.
BGEN IGNACIO is a member of OCS Class 1990 and joined the Philippine Air Force (PAF) Flying School as one of its first female aviation students. She earned her wings in 1993 and later became the first female pilot of the 220th Airlift Wing, flying the F-27 Fokker aircraft.
She persevered and worked her way through training and education and contributed significantly in laying down the foundation of the PAF’s strategic plans as well as its gender and development initiatives. Prior to her retirement in April of this year, she held the position of The Adjutant General, AFP.
Throughout her career, BGEN IGNACIO has not only excelled as a pilot but also as a planner, strategist, peacekeeper, scholar, and a servant leader. She can be best remembered with her words, “I always believe that the military is a noble of profession and firmly stand by its nobleness. In my own way, I always do what is right and what is beneficial to the organization.”
Blessed not only with a pioneering spirit but also with a good heart, her commitment and selfless efforts went beyond the military service as she also supported her community by sponsoring medals for honor students and scholarships for the indigents. She also gave Christmas presents to children utilizing her yearly Christmas bonus.
In recognition of her outstanding examples of gallantry, dedication, professionalism, and integrity, the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. and Rotary Club of Makati Metro acclaimed her as one of The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) for 2015. (VICTOR BALDEMOR)
