2 PAF pilots in Benguet crash to be laid to rest at Libingan ng mga Bayani

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Tuesday said the two pilots who died in an aircraft mishap in Benguet will be laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.

PAF spokesperson Colonel Ma. Christina Basco said First Lieutenant Ruth Angelique Pasos and Second Lieutenant Cherky Enlawan Embudo will be given final military honors in recognition of their service and sacrifice.

“Today, May 26, First Lieutenant Pasos and Second Lieutenant Embudo will be laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani,” Basco said in a press briefing.

“The Philippine Air Force once again extends its deepest condolences to the families of the fallen pilots and assures them of its full support during this difficult time,” she added.

Pasos and Embudo were onboard an SF-260 trainer aircraft when it was reported to have crashed at around 10:30 a.m. on May 20 during a navigation training flight.

On May 21, Basco said the fallen pilots were accorded arrival honors at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base and were posthumously awarded the Silver Wing Medal in recognition of their dedication, professionalism, and service.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. also extended condolences to the bereaved families and paid tribute to the pilots’ sacrifice.

An investigation into the aircraft mishap remains ongoing, according to the PAF.

The PAF said it is also undertaking safety reviews and reinforcing pilot training programs in the wake of the incident. —AOL, GMA News