Lieutenant General Arthur Cordura has been appointed as the new commanding officer of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), succeeding Lieutenant General Stephen Parreño. The formal turnover took place on Thursday, December 19, during a change-of-command and retirement ceremony.
Cordura’s appointment was confirmed on December 16 through an approval letter from the Office of the President. His promotion was endorsed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. and the AFP Board of Generals.
Previously serving as the AFP’s second-in-command since November 2022, Cordura stepped into the role amid significant changes in the Marcos administration’s defense leadership.
In January 2023, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reinstated Andres Centino as AFP chief for a brief second term and appointed former military chief Eduardo Año as National Security Adviser, replacing Clarita Carlos. Brawner, the current AFP chief, has held the position since July 2023.
A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Bigkis Lahi Class of 1990, Cordura brings an extensive experience to his new role, having previously served as PAF vice commander, chief of Air Staff, and commander of both the Air Force Reserve Command and the 520th Air Base Wing.
He succeeded Parreño, a member of the PMA Sambisig Class of 1991.
Cordura takes the air force helm at a pivotal time as the military shifts its focus to external defense, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, where Chinese incursions remain a major challenge.
Despite limited resources, the PAF plays a critical role in safeguarding Philippine airspace and maritime territories.
The PAF has ambitious modernization plans, including the acquisition of at least 36 multirole fighter jets, as highlighted by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.
Currently, the PAF operates only 12 South Korean-made FA-50PH jets. Recent advancements include the acquisition of two air surveillance radar systems from Japan, with three more on the way.
The Philippines has also become a top beneficiary of Japan’s new Official Security Assistance framework, reflecting strengthened defense ties between the two nations.
