On PH Jets’ Fate, Air Strikes: Questions That Hound Recent Bukidnon Crash

by@PHwriters -

PHILIPPINES - The deafening roar of a C-130 aircraft flying above Villamor Air Base in Pasay City marked a somber occasion on March 8, 2024. The plane carried the remains of two Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots, Major Jude Salang-Oy, 34, and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla, 29, who tragically lost their lives in a jet crash in Bukidnon, Northern Mindanao. This time, however, the pilots did not disembark as they once did after their missions. Instead, they returned in enclosed wooden caskets, draped in the Philippine flag, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice they made for their country.

On March 8, 2025, the remains of the deceased FA-50 fighter pilots were transported by C-130 aircraft from Cagayan de Oro City to Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. PHOTO By PAF


The two pilots were on a routine training mission when their jet crashed into the mountain ranges of Bukidnon. Despite search and rescue operations launched immediately after the jet was reported missing, Salang-Oy and Dadulla did not survive. Their remains were recovered a day later, bringing a grim end to the hopes of their families, colleagues, and the nation.


At exactly 1:22 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, the remains of the two pilots were flown from Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro City to Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. The aircraft landed shortly past 3 p.m., and the solemnity of the moment was palpable. Honor guards in dark blue uniforms approached the plane to retrieve the caskets, placing them on metal holders beneath the aircraft. After about 20 minutes, the white caskets, each wrapped in the Philippine flag, were carefully brought down.

A few meters away, the families of the fallen pilots waited in silence. Dressed in black and white, some wiped away tears as they caught sight of the caskets carrying their loved ones. Twelve PAF officers in white uniforms lifted the caskets onto their shoulders, and the haunting melody of “Nearer My God to Thee” filled the air. The procession began, with Salang-Oy’s casket leading the way, followed by Dadulla’s. The caskets were placed in front of a line of saluting PAF personnel and grieving family members at the end of the runway.

With solemn respect, Philippine Air Force personnel carried the flag-covered caskets of the fallen pilots upon their arrival at Villamor Air Base on March 8, 2025. PHOTO by PAF

Honors and Recognition
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo, and other officials accompanied the immediate family members as they approached the caskets. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, was initially expected to lead the honors but was unable to attend due to an “urgent matter.”


Military priests blessed the remains, offering prayers for the souls of the departed. Secretary Teodoro, wearing a barong with a black cloth wrapped around one arm sleeve, then led the conferment of the Distinguished Aviation Cross award on Salang-Oy and Dadulla. This prestigious recognition, the highest aviation-related award in the PAF, is bestowed upon personnel who demonstrate “distinguished heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.” The award underscored the bravery and dedication of the two pilots, who gave their lives in service to the nation.

The ceremony concluded with the caskets being transported to funeral cars, as family members and loved ones prepared to begin the vigil. PAF spokesperson Colonel Ma. Consuelo Castillo announced that vigils would be held at Villamor Air Base and Basa Air Base in Pampanga to allow PAF personnel and officers to pay their last respects. She also emphasized that the families had requested privacy during this difficult time.

While the nation mourns the loss of two of its brave pilots, questions surrounding the crash remain unanswered. The incident has reignited concerns about the state of the Philippine Air Force’s aging fleet and the safety of its personnel. The PAF has long struggled with outdated equipment and limited resources, raising concerns about the risks faced by pilots during training and operational missions.

The Bukidnon crash also comes amid heightened military activity in Mindanao, where the Armed Forces of the Philippines has been conducting air strikes and operations against insurgent groups. Some have questioned whether the increased operational tempo and the strain it places on both personnel and equipment could have contributed to the tragedy.

In the wake of the crash, calls for accountability and modernization have grown louder. Defense analysts and military experts have urged the government to prioritize the modernization of the PAF, emphasizing the need for newer, more reliable aircraft and enhanced training programs to ensure the safety of pilots. The tragic deaths of Salang-Oy and Dadulla serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who serve in the armed forces and the urgent need to address systemic issues within the military.

Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla will be remembered not only for their heroism but also for their dedication to their country. Their sacrifice highlights the courage and commitment of the men and women who serve in the Philippine Air Force, often under challenging conditions. As the nation mourns their loss, their legacy will serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting and safeguarding those who defend the skies.

The Bukidnon crash is a tragedy that has left a deep scar on the nation. While the investigation into the incident continues, the focus must remain on honoring the memory of the fallen pilots and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again. The Philippine Air Force, and the nation as a whole, must learn from this loss and take decisive steps to protect the lives of those who serve in the line of duty.

A Nation in Mourning: The Tragic Bukidnon Crash and the Questions It Raises

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is in a state of mourning following the tragic crash of one of its jets in Bukidnon, Northern Mindanao, which claimed the lives of two of its dedicated pilots, Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla. The incident has not only left a void in the hearts of their families and colleagues but has also raised pressing questions about the state of the country’s air force and the safety of its personnel.

“Of course, the morale of the Philippine Air Force is affected. The Philippine Air Force is in mourning right now. We are deeply saddened by this event, but then, our mission goes on,” PAF spokesperson Colonel Ma. Consuelo Castillo told reporters. Her words encapsulated the somber mood that has enveloped the PAF, as it grapples with the loss of two of its own. Despite the grief, the air force remains committed to its duties, underscoring the resilience and dedication of its personnel.

Major Jude Salang-Oy, 34, was a native of Tabuk, Kalinga. He leaves behind his wife and a four-year-old child, who will now grow up without a father. 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla, 29, was reportedly a native of Bukidnon, the very province where he met his untimely demise. The loss of these young pilots has sent shockwaves through their communities and the nation at large.

Support for the Families
In the wake of the tragedy, the PAF has assured the families of the fallen pilots that they will receive the support and assistance they need. Under Republic Act No. 6963, the families are entitled to financial assistance equivalent to the average six months’ salary of the deceased, including allowances and bonuses earned in the last twelve months preceding their death. This provision aims to provide some measure of financial stability to the families during this difficult time.

Additionally, Salang-Oy’s child will receive educational assistance from the PAF, ensuring that the young one’s future is not compromised by the tragic loss. The families also have the option to lay their loved ones to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, the resting place for Filipino heroes, as both pilots died in the line of duty. This honor reflects the nation’s gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

The Investigation: Seeking Answers
As the nation mourns, the PAF has launched a thorough investigation into the crash. “The investigation is ongoing. In fact, our investigating team from the Philippine Air Force trekked for a whole day to Mount Kalatungan to investigate the crash site,” Castillo said in a mix of Filipino and English. The challenging terrain of the crash site has made the investigation arduous, but the PAF is determined to uncover the truth.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the PAF’s chain of command have all emphasized the importance of a comprehensive and transparent investigation. The goal is not only to determine the cause of the crash but also to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Lingering Questions
While the investigation focuses on the immediate cause of the crash, the incident has brought to light broader issues that demand attention. The Bukidnon crash has reignited concerns about the state of the PAF’s aging fleet and the safety of its personnel. The air force has long struggled with outdated equipment and limited resources, raising questions about whether these factors contributed to the tragedy.

The crash also comes at a time when the PAF has been actively involved in operations in Mindanao, including air strikes against insurgent groups. The increased operational tempo has placed additional strain on both personnel and equipment, leading some to question whether the demands of these missions have compromised safety standards.

Calls for Modernization
In the aftermath of the crash, calls for the modernization of the PAF have grown louder. Defense analysts and military experts have long argued that the air force’s aging fleet poses a significant risk to its personnel. The tragic deaths of Salang-Oy and Dadulla have underscored the urgent need for newer, more reliable aircraft and enhanced training programs to ensure the safety of pilots.

The Philippine government has made some strides in modernizing the armed forces in recent years, but progress has been slow. The Bukidnon crash serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of delays in addressing these critical issues. It is imperative that the government prioritize the modernization of the PAF to prevent further loss of life.

Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla will be remembered not only for their heroism but also for their unwavering dedication to their country. Their sacrifice highlights the courage and commitment of the men and women who serve in the Philippine Air Force, often under challenging conditions. As the nation mourns their loss, their legacy will serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting and safeguarding those who defend the skies.

The Bukidnon crash is a tragedy that has left a deep scar on the nation. While the investigation continues, the focus must remain on honoring the memory of the fallen pilots and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again. The Philippine Air Force, and the nation as a whole, must learn from this loss and take decisive steps to protect the lives of those who serve in the line of duty.

The families of Salang-Oy and Dadulla, along with their colleagues in the PAF, deserve answers and accountability. The nation owes it to them to ensure that their sacrifice is not in vain. As the PAF continues its mission, it must do so with a renewed commitment to the safety and well-being of its personnel. Only then can the legacy of Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla be truly honored.

The Fate of the FA-50s: Grounded After the Bukidnon Tragedy and the Implications for Philippine Defense


The recent crash of a Philippine Air Force (PAF) FA-50 fighter jet in Bukidnon, Northern Mindanao, has sent shockwaves through the nation and raised critical questions about the safety, reliability, and future of the country’s fleet of supersonic aircraft. The tragic accident, which claimed the lives of two pilots, Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla, marks the first aviation incident involving the FA-50 since its acquisition nearly a decade ago. In the aftermath of the crash, the PAF has grounded its entire fleet of FA-50s, a move that underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation.

The Bukidnon Tragedy: A First for the FA-50 Fleet
The Bukidnon crash is a historic and somber milestone for the PAF. It is the first recorded accident involving pilots operating one of the country’s 12 FA-50 fighter jets, which were acquired under the administration of former President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III. The grounding of the fleet is a standard procedure following aviation accidents, according to PAF spokesperson Colonel Ma. Consuelo Castillo.

“This means we need to check our current fleet to rule out the possibility that a material factor caused the accident,” Castillo explained. The investigation will focus on whether mechanical failure, human error, or external factors contributed to the crash. The probe is expected to be meticulous, given the high stakes involved.

This is not the first time the FA-50 fleet has faced scrutiny. During the Marawi siege in 2017, the same fighter jets were involved in a tragic incident that resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to others. The accident occurred when a bomb dropped by an FA-50 missed its target by 250 meters, striking friendly forces engaged in combat with Maute rebels. The fleet was temporarily grounded for months following the mishap, but it was later redeployed after an investigation determined that the error was not due to a fault in the aircraft or the pilots.

The Marawi incident highlighted both the capabilities and risks associated with the FA-50s. Despite the tragedy, the jets were instrumental in turning the tide of the conflict. Their precision bombing capabilities earned them the nickname “game changers” during the siege, as they provided critical air support to ground troops battling insurgents.

The FA-50 fighter jets, manufactured by Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI), were procured in 2014 at a cost of P18.9 billion. Their acquisition marked a significant milestone for the Philippine military, returning the country to the supersonic age and providing a much-needed boost to its defense capabilities. The jets were intended to serve as a cornerstone of the country’s minimum credible defense posture, ensuring that the Philippines could respond to both internal and external threats.

In terms of features, the FA-50s are formidable aircraft. They can carry up to 4.5 tons of weapons, including air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, machine guns, and precision-guided bombs. The jets are also equipped with advanced systems such as a Night Vision Imaging System, Radar Warning Receiver, and Counter Measure Dispenser System, making them versatile assets for both combat and reconnaissance missions.

The grounding of the FA-50 fleet comes at a critical time for the Philippines. These fighter jets play a vital role in maintaining the country’s defense, particularly in the face of ongoing maritime tensions in the West Philippine Sea. The FA-50s have been regularly deployed for patrols in the region, where China’s aggressive actions have raised concerns about sovereignty and security.

Castillo emphasized the importance of the FA-50s in national defense, stating that they are “vital in maintaining the country’s defense.” However, she also assured the public that the grounding is a precautionary measure and that the fleet will be cleared for operations as soon as the investigation is complete. “But as soon as we clear things regarding this, and of course, if there is a national emergency or a national concern that we have to address, then we’re going to lift the grounding as soon as possible so that our aircraft can perform their mission,” she added.

The Investigation: A Race Against Time
The investigation into the Bukidnon crash is expected to be thorough and time-consuming. PAF investigators trekked for an entire day to reach the crash site on Mount Kalatungan, underscoring the challenging terrain and the complexity of the probe. The investigation will examine all possible factors, including mechanical issues, pilot error, and environmental conditions.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the PAF’s chain of command have all emphasized the importance of a transparent and comprehensive investigation. The findings will not only determine the cause of the crash but also inform future safety protocols and operational procedures.

Broader Questions: The State of the PAF
The Bukidnon tragedy has reignited concerns about the state of the Philippine Air Force and its aging fleet. While the FA-50s are relatively new compared to other aircraft in the PAF’s inventory, the incident highlights the risks associated with operating advanced military equipment. The grounding of the fleet also raises questions about the PAF’s readiness and capacity to respond to emergencies, particularly in light of ongoing security challenges.

Defense analysts have long called for the modernization of the PAF, arguing that outdated equipment and limited resources pose significant risks to personnel and national security. The tragic deaths of Salang-Oy and Dadulla serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of delays in addressing these issues.

A Legacy of Sacrifice
Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla will be remembered as heroes who gave their lives in service to their country. Their sacrifice underscores the bravery and dedication of the men and women who serve in the Philippine Air Force, often under challenging and dangerous conditions. As the nation mourns their loss, their legacy will serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting and safeguarding those who defend the skies.

The Bukidnon crash is a tragedy that demands reflection and action. While the investigation continues, the focus must remain on honoring the memory of the fallen pilots and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again. The Philippine Air Force, and the nation as a whole, must learn from this loss and take decisive steps to protect the lives of those who serve in the line of duty.

The grounding of the FA-50 fleet is a necessary precaution, but it also highlights the urgent need for modernization and investment in the country’s defense capabilities. As the Philippines faces evolving security challenges, the lessons of the Bukidnon tragedy must guide efforts to build a stronger, safer, and more resilient air force. Only then can the legacy of Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla be truly honored.

On NPA, Air Strikes, and the Bukidnon Crash: Unanswered Questions and Broader Implications

The tragic crash of a Philippine Air Force (PAF) FA-50 fighter jet in Bukidnon, Northern Mindanao, has not only left the nation in mourning but has also reignited debates about the use of air strikes in military operations, particularly against the New People’s Army (NPA). The incident, which claimed the lives of two pilots, Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla, occurred under circumstances that have raised questions about the role of the FA-50 jets in recent airstrikes and the broader implications of such operations on civilian populations and the environment.

The FA-50s and Recent Airstrikes: A Connection?
When asked whether the FA-50 jets flown by Salang-Oy and Dadulla were involved in recent airstrikes in Mindanao, PAF spokesperson Colonel Ma. Consuelo Castillo declined to provide a definitive answer. “Right now, I cannot comment on that, but what we can say is your Philippine Air Force is a force provider for the operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. We provide support whenever needed to support our ground troops,” she said.

Reports from Rappler suggest that the fighter jet went missing around the same time the military launched airstrikes in the Pantaron mountain range in Northern Mindanao on March 4. The Philippine Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade (403IB) commander, Colonel Antonio Duluan Jr., confirmed that they had requested air support from the PAF to weaken the defenses of alleged NPA rebels near Cabanglasan town, located within the mountain range. Duluan stated that the airstrikes occurred between 1 to 2 a.m. on March 4.

However, Major General Michele Anayron of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) could not confirm whether the crashed aircraft was specifically used for the airstrikes. Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Garello, spokesperson for the 4ID, noted that the 403IB acted on “reliable intelligence provided by the community” when it launched military operations against communist rebels in Cabanglasan. Garello emphasized that air support was necessary for a “larger confrontation” with the rebels.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) also weighed in on the incident. In a March 8 report published on its Philippine Revolution Web Central, the CPP claimed that two FA-50 fighter jets dropped bombs in Bukidnon on March 4. While the military has not confirmed this claim, it has added another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.

The use of airstrikes in military operations is not new in the Philippines. The FA-50 jets, acquired in 2014, were first used for “surgical airstrikes” in October 2019, when the military dropped 500-pound bombs on a temporary NPA base in Las Navas, Northern Samar. Since then, targeted bombings have become a regular tactic in the military’s campaign against insurgents.

However, the use of airstrikes has drawn criticism from progressive and human rights groups, who argue that such operations endanger civilian lives and violate international laws of war. Rights group Karapatan, quoted by alternative news outlet Davao Today, has condemned airstrikes for “placing the lives of civilians in peril and violating the laws of war.” The group cited Article 24 (3) of the 1923 Hague Rules of Air Warfare, which states that “the bombardment of cities, towns, villages, dwellings, or buildings not in the immediate neighborhood of the operations of land forces is prohibited.”

Progressive group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) has also called on the government to include the impact of airstrikes on rural communities and the environment in its investigation into the Bukidnon crash. In a statement, BAYAN urged authorities to consider the broader consequences of military operations, particularly in areas where civilians are at risk.

The controversy surrounding airstrikes highlights the human cost of military operations in conflict zones. While the military maintains that airstrikes are necessary to weaken rebel forces, critics argue that such tactics often result in collateral damage, including the displacement of civilians and the destruction of homes and livelihoods.

In the case of the Bukidnon airstrikes, the proximity of the operations to civilian-populated areas raises concerns about the potential for harm to non-combatants. The Pantaron mountain range, where the airstrikes were conducted, is home to indigenous communities and rural populations who may have been caught in the crossfire. The lack of transparency surrounding the operations has only fueled suspicions and calls for accountability.

Environmental Impact: A Hidden Consequence
Beyond the immediate human cost, airstrikes also have significant environmental implications. The bombing of forested areas, such as the Pantaron mountain range, can lead to deforestation, habitat destruction, and long-term ecological damage. Progressive groups have called for the government to assess the environmental impact of military operations, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions.

The Pantaron mountain range, often referred to as the “Mindanao Amazon,” is a biodiversity hotspot and a critical watershed for the island. The use of airstrikes in this area not only threatens the livelihoods of local communities but also undermines efforts to preserve the region’s natural resources.

The Way Forward: Balancing Security and Accountability
The Bukidnon crash and the controversy surrounding the use of airstrikes underscore the need for a balanced approach to military operations. While the government has a responsibility to address insurgency and maintain national security, it must also ensure that its tactics do not disproportionately harm civilians or the environment.

The ongoing investigation into the crash provides an opportunity for the government to demonstrate transparency and accountability. By addressing the concerns raised by human rights and progressive groups, authorities can build public trust and ensure that military operations are conducted in a manner that respects international laws and the rights of civilians.

As the nation mourns the loss of Major Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lieutenant April John Dadulla, their sacrifice serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of those who serve in the Philippine Air Force. Their deaths also highlight the risks faced by military personnel in the line of duty and the need for greater investment in the safety and modernization of the armed forces.

At the same time, the tragedy underscores the importance of protecting civilians and the environment in conflict zones. The lessons of the Bukidnon crash must guide efforts to strike a balance between security and accountability, ensuring that the pursuit of peace does not come at the expense of human rights and ecological preservation.

The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but it is also an opportunity for the Philippines to reaffirm its commitment to justice, transparency, and the well-being of all its citizens. Only by addressing the root causes of conflict and adopting a holistic approach to security can the nation truly honor the legacy of its fallen heroes. - majaits.com












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