As part of the realization of the PAF’s Future Structure Program, the Tactical Operations Command (TOC) was deactivated to pave way to the activation of Air Combat Command (ACC) in a simple ceremony through Video-Teleconference (VTC) held today, June 01 2020, with the Commanding General, Philippine Air Force LIEUTENANT GENERAL ALLEN T PAREDES AFP as Presiding Officer.
With its mission “to provide forces for tactical air and special operations in support to the accomplishment of the AFP mission,” the command and control over 15th Strike Wing and 710th Special Operations Wing were transferred from CG, PAF to the Commander, ACC. The 530th Air Base Group was transferred from Commander, TOC to the Commander, ACC. Meanwhile, Tactical Operations Wings were placed under the command and control of the CG, PAF.
Among the highlights of the activity were the furling and casing of the Unit Color of the TOC, and the unfurling of the ACC Unit Color by the Commander, ACC, MGEN MARCELINO RANDY L TIBAYAN AFP, assisted by the Assistant Chief of Command Staff for Operations C3, COL RANDY G BUENA PAF (MNSA).
In his speech, the CG, PAF mentioned that these changes are essential in strengthening the country’s air power.
“This transformation reaffirms not only the PAF’s commitment to be a relevant and capable force provider responsive to national security and development, but more importantly, to maximize the full and lethal potential of combat airpower … The ACC will be the champion of the Surface Strike Core System in our PAF Flight Plan. This significant change is our definitive response to ensure that our units are dependable and functional to support the increasing combat demands of the Armed Forces. It is our way of building a robust combat posture and sustaining the gains of our continuing ISO campaign plans against the enemies of the state.”
The CG, PAF also reminded the need for professional and character development of ACC personnel who must heed to the Command’s call to action to take the LEAD and Soar as ONE. “To be sparks of excellence, we need to develop leaders who fear God, who pray, who respect others, who know themselves, who acknowledge their weaknesses, and who love their country and people. Leaders of Diwa, Galing at Malasakit. This is what I expect from all of you!”
