A career in the Philippine Air Force combines service to the nation with professional growth and financial security. Understanding how salaries work per rank helps aspiring recruits, students, and families make informed decisions. PAF salaries are standardized under government compensation laws, ensuring fairness and transparency across all ranks.
Rank Structure of Philippine Air Force
The Philippine Air Force follows a clear military hierarchy divided into two main categories:
Commissioned Officers
These personnel hold leadership and command roles and are responsible for planning, supervision, and execution of missions.
Common officer ranks include:
- Second Lieutenant
- First Lieutenant
- Captain
- Major
- Lieutenant Colonel
- Colonel
- Brigadier General
- Major General
- Lieutenant General
- General
Enlisted Personnel (Airmen)
Enlisted airmen perform technical, operational, and support duties essential to Air Force missions.
Common enlisted ranks include:
- Airman Basic / Airman
- Airman Second Class
- Airman First Class
- Senior Airman
- Staff Sergeant
- Technical Sergeant
- Master Sergeant
- Senior Master Sergeant
- Chief Master Sergeant
How Philippine Air Force Salaries Are Determined
Philippine Air Force salaries are governed by national government pay laws applicable to all uniformed personnel of the AFP. These laws assign salary grades to each rank, ensuring:
- Equal base pay for the same rank across all AFP branches
- Regular reviews and possible increases through government policy
- Clear salary progression tied to rank and promotion
Base salary is fixed, but total compensation increases significantly through allowances and benefits.
Philippine Air Force Salary Per Rank
Commissioned Officers – Monthly Base Salary
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Base Salary (PHP) |
|---|---|
| Second Lieutenant | ₱43,800 |
| First Lieutenant | ₱49,500 |
| Captain | ₱56,500 |
| Major | ₱62,500 |
| Lieutenant Colonel | ₱71,300 |
| Colonel | ₱80,500 |
| Brigadier General | ₱91,000 |
| Major General | ₱102,800 |
| Lieutenant General | ₱125,500 |
| General | ₱149,700 |
Commissioned officers receive higher pay as they move up the command structure, reflecting increased responsibility and leadership.
Enlisted Personnel – Monthly Base Salary
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Base Salary (PHP) |
|---|---|
| Airman Second Class | ₱30,200 |
| Airman First Class | ₱32,700 |
| Senior Airman / Sergeant | ₱36,500 |
| Staff Sergeant | ₱38,000+ |
| Technical Sergeant | ₱40,000+ |
| Master Sergeant | ₱43,800 |
| Senior Master Sergeant | ₱47,000+ |
| Chief Master Sergeant | ₱50,000+ |
Enlisted salaries increase steadily with promotion, time-in-service, and skill specialization.
Allowances and Additional Compensation
In addition to base pay, Philippine Air Force personnel may receive several allowances, depending on assignment and role:
- Subsistence Allowance (daily food allowance)
- Hazard Pay for risky assignments
- Combat Duty Pay
- Flying Pay for pilots and aircrew
- Quarters Allowance for housing support
- Clothing Allowance
- Laundry Allowance
- Longevity Pay based on years of service
These allowances can significantly raise monthly take-home pay, especially for pilots, technicians, and operational units.
Bonuses and Special Incentives
PAF personnel may also qualify for:
- Special skills incentives
- Training and qualification bonuses
- Mission-based incentives
- Reenlistment benefits
- Performance-based recognitions
Such incentives reward expertise, commitment, and operational excellence.
Benefits Beyond Salary
The Philippine Air Force offers strong non-monetary benefits that add long-term value:
- Free medical and dental care
- Retirement pension after required years of service
- Insurance and survivor benefits
- Housing and base facilities
- Local and overseas training opportunities
- Educational support and professional development
These benefits make the Air Force an attractive long-term career choice.
Salary Progression and Career Growth
Salary growth in the Philippine Air Force is driven by:
- Promotion to higher rank
- Years of continuous service
- Completion of required training and leadership courses
- Assignment to specialized or high-responsibility roles
Both enlisted personnel and officers have opportunities to advance and increase their earnings over time.
Comparison With Other AFP Branches
Base salaries in the Philippine Air Force are the same as those in the Philippine Army and Navy for equivalent ranks. Differences in total compensation usually come from:
- Aviation-related allowances
- Technical specialization
- Nature of assignments and missions
The Philippine Air Force salary per rank system is structured, transparent, and competitive within government service. While base pay is standardized, the combination of allowances, benefits, and career advancement opportunities creates a strong total compensation package. For those seeking stability, professional growth, and service to the nation, a career in the Philippine Air Force remains a rewarding path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Philippine Air Force pay higher than other AFP branches?
Base pay is the same across all branches. Additional allowances may vary depending on role and assignment.
Do pilots earn more than non-pilot officers?
Yes. Pilots and aircrew often receive flying pay and technical allowances on top of base salary.
Can enlisted personnel become officers?
Yes. Qualified enlisted personnel may apply for officer commissioning programs, leading to higher ranks and salaries.