The Philippine Air Force (PAF) remains without answers as investigators work to determine what caused the deadly crash of an FA-50 fighter jet in Bukidnon. The aircraft, which went missing on Tuesday during a tactical mission, was located in the rugged terrain of Mount Kalatungan, with both pilots found dead.

PAF spokesperson Col. Maria Consuelo Castillo acknowledged the lack of conclusive findings, stating, “Nothing conclusive yet. We are going to do a thorough investigation.”

The FA-50 was performing reconnaissance and airstrikes in support of Philippine Army troops engaged in combat with communist rebels in northern Mindanao when it disappeared from radar. The jet’s emergency locator transmitter and beacon signals helped ground search teams locate the wreckage amid dense fog and rough terrain.

The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) confirmed that the aircraft had crashed into thick forest cover, with evidence suggesting the pilots may have attempted to eject before impact.

To ensure flight safety, the PAF has grounded its entire FA-50 fleet while awaiting investigation results. Castillo noted that the timeline for resuming operations remains uncertain, saying, “It may take days or weeks, but we are expediting the process because we need them for our operations, especially for territorial defense.”

The FA-50s, acquired between 2015 and 2017, have played a crucial role in the country’s defense. The aircraft were notably instrumental in the 2017 Marawi siege, earning them the nickname “Game-changers of Marawi.”

Despite the accident, Castillo emphasized that these aircraft have a long service life and remain vital for national security. “As long as they are well-maintained and spare parts remain available, they will continue to be operational,” she said.

The investigation

The cause of the crash remains undetermined, with PAF officials examining various possibilities. “We are looking at all angles — it could be material failure, human factor, or even weather conditions. This was a high-risk mission, but our pilots are well-trained for both day and night operations,” Castillo explained.

PAF officials have yet to release the names of the fallen pilots, urging the public to avoid spreading unverified information on social media. “We have been in touch with their families since the moment the aircraft went missing, providing them with the necessary support,” Castillo said.

While the FA-50 fleet is grounded, the PAF will rely on other fixed-wing and rotary aircraft to continue maritime patrols and tactical support missions.

As the investigation unfolds, the nation mourns the loss of two brave aviators who dedicated their lives to national security.