Air assets of the Philippine Air Force and the United States Pacific Air Force (PACAF) held a combined air patrol over the West Philippine Sea on February 19.
Three PAF FA-50s accompanied one B-52H bomber aircraft of PACAF in the activity that started west of Ilocos Sur and ended over Mindoro Strait.
According to Col Xerxes Trinidad, the Armed Forces of the Philippine Public Information Office chief , said combined air activity is in line with the recently-conducted 3rd iteration of the Maritime Cooperative Activity.
“It is the air component of the said activity that demonstrates the commitment of both armed forces to enhancing interoperability and advancing regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific,” Trinidad said.
PAF spokesperson Col. Ma.Consuelo Castillo was quick to clarify that the recent Maritime Cooperative Activities were just part of regular joint activities between allied countries and not directed to anyone.
“Our participation in this combined air patrol, which is part of the 3rd iteration of the MCA between AFP and USINDOPACOM, is part of our commitment to enhance operational jointness and interoperability with our allies while promoting regional security and stability,” she said.
“ As pronounced by HQS AFP , the MCA is in no way directed towards any country and the activity is in accordance with the international rules based order, as we were operating within our territory and within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone,” she added.
It also further strengthens the capability of the AFP to perform its mandate and maintain its presence over the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
