The Philippine Air Force announced on Wednesday that the wreckage of an FA-50 fighter jet and the bodies of two pilots were discovered in a mountainous region following a recent crash during a mission that targeted communist guerrilla fighters.
In a statement released by the Philippine Air Force, Philippine officials confirmed that the FA-50 aircraft that had been reported missing was “located by ground troops in the vicinity of the Mt. Kalatungan Complex on Wednesday.”
The statement added, “With deep regret and profound sadness, the PAF announces the loss of the two pilots aboard.”
According to The Associated Press, Philippine military officials explained that the FA-50 jet had been conducting a nighttime mission as part of the country’s effort to combat communist guerrillas. Officials noted that the fighter jet lost communication during the combat mission after midnight on Tuesday prior to reaching the Bukidnon province. Philippine officials added that the other aircraft involved in the mission successfully returned to the military’s air base in the Cebu province.
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Addressing the remains of the FA-50 fighter jet, Lt. Gen Luis Rex Bergante, the Philippine military’s regional commander, said, “It was a total wreck.” The regional military commander said the remains of the fighter jet were discovered in a jungle on Mount Kalatungan by Filipino special forces.
According to The Associated Press, Lt. Col. Francisco Garello, a regional military spokesman, confirmed that both of the bodies of the two Philippine Air Force pilots were discovered near the FA-50 fighter jet’s wreckage.
Following the fatal FA-50 fighter jet crash, the Philippine Air Force announced that it had “grounded its FA-50 fleet and will ensure a thorough investigation into the accident.”
“We are committed to providing all the necessary support to the bereaved families during this difficult time,” the Philippine Air Force stated. “Meanwhile, we also request the nation’s prayers for the eternal repose of our fallen pilots, whose service and heroism we deeply honor.”
Pictures of the FA-50 fighter jet wreckage and the pilots were shared Wednesday on X, formerly Twitter.
