PAF mourns death of 2 pilots in fatal FA-50 jet crash

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Friday paid homage to two airmen who died in the recent crash of an FA-50 fighter jet at Mount Kalatungan in Bukidnon.

"The Philippine Air Force mourns the loss of Major Jude S Salang-Oy PAF and First Lieutenant April John B Dadulla PAF. Both brave fighter jet pilots lost their lives in a fatal crash at Mt. Kalatungan, Bukidnon during a tactical night operation in support of ground troops on March 4, 2025," it said in a statement.

The PAF remembered the sacrifice of Major Jude Salang-Oy, who was a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Siklab Diwa" Class of 2014, and served "with distinction" for over a decade.

Salang-Oy held numerous critical missions throughout his career, according to the PAF. He was a part of the PAF's deployment to the recent Pitchblack Exercise in Darwin, Australia.

Meanwhile, First Lieutenant AJ Dadulla was a member of the Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate Course "SINAGLAWIN" Class of 2020, who demonstrated exceptional skills and proficiency, and was entitled to fly the most advanced PAF fighter aircraft.

"Until their last moments, both pilots embodied unwavering dedication and commitment to serving the nation," the PAF said.

"The Philippine Air Force extends its heartfelt sympathies to the families, friends, and loved ones of Major Salang-Oy and First Lieutenant Dadulla. The heroism, selflessness, and bravery displayed by these pilots will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of airmen to serve with the same courage, dedication, and commitment to excellence," it added.

Both Salang-oy and Dadulla were members of the 7th Tactical Fighter Squadron or Bulldogs.

Their remains were brought to a funeral parlor in Cagayan de Oro and were scheduled to be flown on Friday or Saturday to Villamor Airbase for military honors.

Dadulla was scheduled to marry his fiancée on March 15.

Their fighter jet missing early Tuesday during a tactical night operation. The next day, the aircraft was found "totally wrecked" while the two pilots were found dead at Mount Kalatungan.

Mechanical and human factors are among the angles the PAF will investigate with regard to the crash. — VDV, GMA Integrated News