The Philippine Air Force thru the 505th Search and Rescue Group successfully conducted the 5-day Search and Rescue Challenge 2016 from June 20-24, 2016 at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City and at the Air Force Beach in Calaca City, Batangas. The Commanding General, PAF Lt Gen Edgar R Fallorina AFP graced the Closing and Awarding Ceremony at Bulwagang Makulot in Fernando Air Base, Lipa City on June 24, 2016.
For this year’s challenge the following units were announced as the winners and they received special awards from the Commanding General, PAF:
Overall champion- 1st Air Division
1st Runner up- 520th Air Base Wing
2nd Runner up- 2nd Air Division
Best in Written Examination- 1st Air Division
Best in Rubber Boat Run- 2nd Air Divisions
Best in Ropemanship Contest- 1st Air Division
Best in Mass Casualty Incident- 15th Strike Wing
Best in Life Saving Techniques- 15th Strike Wing
Best in Surface Water Search and Rescue- 1st Air Division
Best in collapsed Structure Search and Rescue- 3rd Air Division
Best in Rope Rescue- Air Education and Training Command
Best in Vehicle Road Accident Rescue- 2nd Air Divisions
CG, PAF said in his speech, “Our quest to be the Jointly Transformed and Engaged Force or J.E.T Force for Greater Peace and Security is not meant only for our Internal Security or External Defense Operations nor to our roles in our government’s varied economic programs and efforts; but it is equally important for us to be just as proficient in saving and preserving live.” He added that the PAF does not merely pursue the full realization of the Modernization Program exclusively to enhance its fighting capabilities, but its search and rescue capabilities to further bolster its life-saving efforts.
He also recognized the 505th Search and Rescue Group Commander, the indefatigable Exercise Director, Col Dennis G Estrella PAF (GSC), for a good job in spearheading the activity.
Photo by: A1C Yupangco PAF
