JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- In celebration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. Independence, the Air Force Band of the Pacific completed a musical tour across the Philippines from March 4-14, 2026.
Combining patriotism with purpose, the six Airman musicians performed side by side with Filipino servicemembers, students, and civic organizations throughout Manila, Tuguegarao, Cebu and Puerto Princesa.
The performances also came as the United States and the Philippines approach the 75th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty, a milestone that reflects decades of shared commitment to regional security and cooperation.
In Cagayan, the band performed for Gov. Edgar Aglipay and other regional officials. The event was featured by local influencers reaching an audience of more than 1.5 million Filipinos.
“Through performances like these, the bonds between nations are strengthened, not only through diplomacy and security cooperation, but also through cultural exchange and people-to-people connections,” said Aglipay.
In Cebu, the band also performed at a rescue center for survivors of human trafficking and abuse.
“As members of the Air Force Band, we often talk about the power of music to connect—but in that moment I truly felt it. When we sang the Visayan song ‘Usahay,’ everyone in the room joined in.
It was a reminder that even in the hardest circumstances, music can offer comfort and hope,” said Staff Sgt. Courtney Woods, PACAF Band vocalist “That performance will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
In the West Philippine Sea, the band interacted with Philippine Airmen from Tactical Operations Wing West and students from Palawan State University.
The American musicians learned from their hosts as well, watching performances of traditional Filipino instruments and music at the University of the Philippines-Diliman
The band held joint performances with St. Paul University, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, and the Quezon City Symphonic Band. These engagements across the country ultimately serve to affirm enduring American support and friendship for an ally of 80 years.