The Philippine Air Force (PAF) dispelled Manila residents’ alarm upon noticing the appearance of helicopters Monday night.

In a Tuesday report by RH 52 Edniel Parrosa, PAF Spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco confirmed to DZRH News that it had conducted an exercise using three Bell 412 and Black Hawk choppers as part of its night vision goggle proficiency training for the army’s pilots.

“Night Vision Goggle (NVG) Proficiency Training po ito over Manila, to ensure pilots have the ability to safely and effectively conduct night operations para proficient sila sa pag operate ng low-visibility conditions,” she said.

“(Three) helis ang ginamit (Bell 412 at Black hawk) para po sa proficiency training. Coordinated with CAAP (Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines) po ito sir,” she added.

This came in response to a number of residents’ confusion when they heard choppers passing by, one after the other, at past 8:00 p.m. yesterday.

On social media, netizens shared that the noise from the choppers lasted for about half an hour in Sta. Mesa, Pandacan, and other areas nearby Malacañang.