PIA Press Release
Monday, January 09, 2012 PNoy to lead honors for outgoing Air Force chiefby Jell E. Guzman QUEZON CITY, Jan. 9 (PIA) –- President and Commander-in-Chief Benigno S. Aquino III will lead the Change of Command Ceremony Tuesday, January 10 in honor of outgoing Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force Lt. Gen. Oscar H. Rabena. AFP chief of staff Lt. Gen. Jessie D. Dellosa said the change of leadership is part of the institution’s continuous dynamism which is vital in the military to carry their mandate. “The AFP will remain a dynamic organization constantly adjusting to the ever-changing security environment as we envision our organization as fully capable, highly responsive and professional Armed Forces,” said Dellosa. Dellosa also expressed confidence that the next Air Force Commander will be able to continue the implementation of plans and programs the Philippine Air Force is currently adopting. Rabena, the current Air Force chief will hand over the Air Force command months earlier from his mandatory retirement in August of this year. Meanwhile, Dellosa will also lead AFP personnel in a testimonial parade and review Monday, January 9 in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The AFP Board of Generals earlier submitted to President Aquino a short list of well qualified successors of Rabena. Lt. Gen. Rabena, a competent and efficient airman, is also a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Makatarungan” Class of 1978. He graduated from the Philippine Air Force Flying School (PAFFS) in 1979. Rabena assumed the post as the Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force on January 11, 2009. Prior to his stint as Air Force chief, Rabena also held key positions in the AFP such as Deputy of Staff for Plans and Programs, J5 and Air Force Inspector General. He also became the Wing Commander of 15th Strike Wing from 2007-2008, a major unit of the Air Force whose mission is to conduct tactical air operations in support of surface forces of the AFP. Earlier, Rabena also occupied the highly-delicate position of Wing Commander, 250th Presidential Airlift Wing from 2006 to 2007. (AFP/RJB/JEG-PIA NCR) | 
