Remains of pilots in FA-50 crash in Bukidnon laid to rest

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Tuesday said the remains of the two pilots who were killed after their FA-50 fighter jet crashed in Bukidnon have been brought to their final resting place.

In a press briefing, PAF public affairs office assistant chief Major Joseph Richard Calma said the military solemnly honored the interment of Major Jude Salang-Oy and First Lieutenant April John Dadulla.

“On March 15, 2025, Major Salang-oy was laid to rest in Tabuk City, Kalinga and on March 17, 2025, First Lieutenant Dadulla was interred in Cagayan de Oro,” he said.

“The PAF stood in solidarity with their families and loved ones during the solemn moment. Their dedication, bravery, and commitment to duty will forever be remembered as an inspiration to our airmen and the entire nation,” he added.

Meanwhile, Calma said the voice and data recorder from the crashed aircraft has been sent to the United States for data extraction and analysis. 

He added that the aircraft manufacturer CAI or Consolidated Aerospace Industries is also involved in the probe.

“The PAF remains committed to ensuring transparency and due diligence in this matter and will provide updates as soon as verified information becomes available,” Calma said.

On March 4, the FA-50 fighter jet with tail number 002 went missing during a tactical night operation in support of ground troops, according to the PAF.  

“Shortly after midnight on March 4, 2025, an FA-50 fighter jet, went missing during a Tactical Night Operations. The aircraft lost communication with the rest of the flight involved in the mission minutes before reaching the target area,” PAF spokesperson Colonel Ma. Consuelo Castillo earlier said.

On March 5, the aircraft was found wrecked with two cadavers in the vicinity of the Mt. Kalatungan Complex. —VAL, GMA Integrated News