Family of FA-50 jet pilot staying strong following tragedy

The family of 1st Lieutenant April John "AJ" Dadullla, one of the two pilots who died in the FA-50 fighter jet crash at Mount Kalatungan in Talakag, Bukidnon, is staying strong after the unfortunate incident that killed him.

Family members visited their loved one's remains at a funeral home in Cagayan de Oro on Thursday evening, March 6, 2025.

The family stayed for several minutes.

Dadulla's brother, Jovenell, said that while they are saddened by what happened to his brother, it is their choice now to stay strong.

"Siyempre, naguol kay mao man ang nahitabo sa akong igsuon pero wala man gyud mi mabuhat kay mao man gyud na ang nahitabo," Jovenell said.

"Of course, kay dili man pwede nga magpaluya-luya," Jovenell added.

He described his brother as a hero because of his dedicated service to the country.

In a report by GMA News Online, Dadulla was supposed to get married on March 15, 2025.

As shown in photos shared by Teo Yambot Photography with GMA Regional TV One Mindanao, Dadulla and his fiancée completed their prenup shoot in February.

Dadulla's remains and those of his fellow pilot, Major Jude Salang-oy, will be flown to the Villamor Airbase for military honors.

Flight data

Meanwhile, authorities have recovered the jet’s flight data recorder, which can help determine the speed, elevation, and condition of the aircraft when it figured in the incident.

The Philippine Air Force's (PAF) investigation team has started forensic examination at the crash site in Bukidnon.

Among the angles they are looking are possible mechanical problems and human factors.

"We are going to look at all angles. Yes, you've mentioned material factor, mechanical factors, human factor—we are going to look at their medical records, mental state records, and aside from that, environmental is also a factor," said PAF spokesperson Colonel Maria Consuelo Castillo. — GMA Regional TV