THE Department of National Defense received four brand new CESSNA 172S Skyhawk Trainer Aircraft from the United States of America worth USD 2.2 million (P112 million) under the US Foreign Military Financing Program. National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana spearheaded the turnover, blessing, and activation ceremony of the trainer planes at Sangley Point, Cavite. Present during the ceremony were US Chargé d’affaires Heather Variava and AFP officials led by CSAFP Gen Andres Centino and Navy Flag Officer in Command Vadm Adeluis Bordado. The four CESSNA 172S Skyhawk trainer aircraft will be used by the Philippine Navy Naval Air Wing. “As we rejoice over this milestone, we also recognize the productive and enduring relationship between the United States and the Philippines, which is the key to the success of this acquisition program,” Lorenzana said.