29-5-2024 (MANILA) The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has formally accepted the second C-130H tactical transport aircraft acquired through a defense agreement with the United States. The announcement was made by Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, the spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), during a media briefing held at the Philippine Army headquarters in Taguig City.
“With the delivery of this transport aircraft, the PAF now has five C-130s in its inventory that can be used for humanitarian, tactical, and strategic missions,” Padilla stated, underscoring the pivotal role these aircraft play in the country’s defense and disaster response operations.
The newly acquired C-130H, bearing tail number 5157, is one of two such aircraft granted by the United States government under the Excess Defense Article (EDA) Program in 2016. Its arrival marks a significant milestone, as the first C-130H was delivered on January 29, 2021, further strengthening the PAF’s airlift capabilities.
Although the aircraft touched down on Philippine soil on February 16, the ceremonial blessing and formal acceptance took place on May 23 at the Brigadier General Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, a symbolic gesture acknowledging the aircraft’s operational readiness.
In an advisory, the PAF emphasized the strategic importance of these heavy airlifters, stating, “These heavy airlifters are significant in delivering relief goods and essential supplies, transporting troops and equipment, and lending support to communities in different areas around the country and even overseas.”
The acquisition of the second C-130H not only augments the PAF’s existing fleet but also underscores the nation’s commitment to enhancing its disaster response capabilities and ensuring the rapid deployment of resources and personnel during times of crisis or humanitarian emergencies.
Furthermore, the expanded airlift capacity will enable the PAF to better support the country’s strategic objectives, facilitate the movement of troops and equipment, and reinforce the nation’s ability to respond swiftly to evolving security challenges within its territorial boundaries and beyond.
