The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Philippine Army (PA) strengthened their joint operational readiness through a week-long interoperability exercise in Antique that tested their ability to coordinate air and ground operations during security threats and emergencies.
The PAF-PA Interoperability Exercise 05-2026 concluded on Oct. 24 at the Antique Airport, bringing together participating units from the two services for synchronized drills and operational activities aimed at improving coordination and mission readiness.
Visayas Command chief Maj. Gen. Moises Micor, guest of honor and speaker during the closing ceremony, urged the participating troops to apply the lessons gained from the exercise to their actual missions.
“Let us carry forward the lessons, trust, and cooperation strengthened through this exercise,” Micor said.
He emphasized the importance of sustaining the cooperation developed during the training to ensure more effective and coordinated military responses when needed.
Maj. Gen. Joey Escanillas, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (ID), said the exercise also opened the way for stronger military cooperation with Antique and communities across Western Visayas.
“This may be the first exercise of its kind conducted here in Antique, but it will certainly not be the last,” Escanillas said.
He stressed that sustained cooperation is vital in strengthening the capability of security forces to protect Antique, Panay Island and the wider Western Visayas region.
The exercise allowed the PAF and PA to test procedures, integrate their capabilities and strengthen interoperability — critical elements in responding to both armed threats and natural disasters.
The participation of local government officials, partner agencies and other stakeholders also highlighted the importance of a whole-of-community approach to regional security and disaster response, a statement from the 3ID said. ||
