Pleasantries…

12 days has gone by after my assumption as the 31st Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force. I must admit that the smile that adorn my already “smiling face” has not yet vanished nor has it lost its luster. The smile could not just wear off, especially now that we are gathered once again this morning to bear witness to what will go down in the annals of the Philippine Air Force as we recognize the extraordinary feat of these distinguised gentlemen from the noble array of our organization – the first ceremony of its kind under my watch. The long wait is over, and your dreams have surpassed reality. Now we awaken to the truth that this magnificent event in your lives happens with a reason.

Meteors or what we commonly call as the “falling stars” fall because they have aged and have lost its power to hold on and light the dark nights. It is somehow a different story when the stars fall upon our shoulders. It looks good to carry those stars on our shoulders, and it feels good too! It adds up a glow to our stature and becomes a symbol of our presence. Attaining the star rank sounds a cheerful note. Cheerful - for in the sense of all the dedication, hard work, persistence and sacrifice, it indicates a dedicated service that has been served with distinction and honor.

We all know that these stars did not come served in a golden platter, I know how much it took to confront life with all its risks and challenges. So now that we finally have them, do not tire from polishing them, neither should you sit on them. It has been said that the pointed ends of the star shall constantly push itself against your shoulders to remind you of the awesome responsibility behind its glamour and prestige. Most of the stars find their place among the heavenly bodies, but the fact that these rocks and metals came down to you, their weight should be enough to keep your feet anchored to the ground as a humble public servant.

The mission of the Philippine Air Force is constant, thus our focus and thrust, plans and programs continue by the minute regardless of any individual rise or fall or any unit’s ascendancy or decline. The stars in your shoulders shall also serve as a greater challenge to your leadership and management in your own respective units and offices. We can not allow a room for complacency, even just a second. Newer challenges to fragile peace in our midst and more daunting challenges lie ahead. In the same light, let us keep our undivided focus on what we have set out. I have inherited an Air Force rich in accomplishments, but we are set to reap even more, and I am counting on you.

Year 2009 came with all the issues on economic recession. We are met with all sorts of battles, but let us not forget that in war or in peace, we should always be heralded as triumphant victors. The very essence of our existence is the Filipino people, and winning is the justification, if we fail to serve the purpose of our being, we cease to exist. But I am confident that with these stars donned upon you, you will draw more inspiration and motivation to keep the Philippine Air Force shining brightly in the service of God and country.

Ladies and Gentlemen, we have here the Generals whom the Air Force relies upon.

Of course we know that MGEN OBAN was the Wing Commander of the Air Defense Wing and now the Commander of the 1st Air Division.  MGEN  MANCENIDO is now the Internal Auditor of the AFP and once the Wing Commander of the Tactical Helicopter Wing. MGEN PRESTOZA is an accomplished intelligence officer and now the Chief of Intelligence Service, AFP.

BGEN VILLARETE, is the Wing Commander of the 15th Strike Wing, an attack fighter pilot.  BGEN EVANGELISTA is now the GHQ VAC Chairman, and earlier I announced BGEN TAN as the Wing Commander of the 250 Presidential Airlift Wing.

To MGEN EDUARDO OBAN, MGEN ROMY PRESTOZA and MGEN ARTHUR MANCENIDO, we are taking it further to watch for your second star. This is somehow extraordinary and is not normally within one’s power to control which I know makes this occasion very meaningful to you.

To BGEN TONY VILLARETE, BGEN TEDDY EVANGELISTA and BGEN JER TAN– welcome to the roster of the General Officers of the Philippine Air Force. Your outstanding performances made you shine above the rest, so keep it going shining.

Lastly, let this occasion be a time for us also to express our sincerest gratitude to God, who is the ultimate source of everything. It is Him who made you reach this feat. It is Him who allowed us to witness this glamorous event. And it is Him who made this occasion possible. Further, let us also acknowledge our families and the men and women behind us. Remember, we did not come here alone. We did not sail the calm and rough seas alone – we sailed in the company of great people who love us such as them.

Once again, my fondest congratulations to all our promotees and to their families. Thank you very much and God bless us all.