Philippines Air Force Shortlists F-16V and Saab JAS-39 Gripen for its Fighter Aircraft Procurement

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has short-listed Lockheed Martin F-16 and Saab JAS-39 Gripen for its multi-role fighter (MRF) project eliminating other contenders such as the South Korean TA-50 and the Indian Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
"(The) two last contenders are the F-16V Block 50/52 Variant and the JAS-39 Gripen C/D+ Version," PAF spokesperson, Col. Maynard Mariano, said in comments quoted by the Philippine News Agency.
The PAF has not revealed a timeline for the final selection between the two evenly-matched jets. However, PAF Chief, Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony Canlas Sr., said earlier that the contract for the MRF project may be signed this year.
Mariano said while the MRF project has been approved, the government has yet to allocate funds for it. "For the MRF, the project is approved with the issued Acquisition Memorandum Decision, the government will still find a way to fund the said project," he added.
The F-16V is the latest and most advanced F-16 in operation to date and is considered the foremost combat-proven fourth-generation MRF. If selected, the PAF will be the first air force in Asia to operate the F-16V. It is equipped with an AESA radar systems that allow greater detection and tracking capabilities, along with advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.

The JAS-39 "Gripen" C/D is classified as the most reliable "swing-role combat aircraft" and is claimed to score over the F-16V in manoeuverability and ease of maintenance as well as having  lower price tag.
It matches the F-16V in terms of having an AESA radar besides, targeting pods and air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.
The JAS-39 Gripen is in operation in Thailand and Brazil among others.