Crashed jet fighter pilots given highest aviation awards

The two Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots killed in a crash in Bukidnon province were posthumously awarded the Distinguished Aviation Cross, the military's highest honor for aviators.  

The remains of Maj. Jude Salang-Oy and 1st Lt. April John Dadulla arrived at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on a C-130 aircraft Thursday, where they were met with full military honors.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who was represented by Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., offered condolences and government assistance to the pilots' families.

Lagdameo, in an interview, expressed the government's grief over the loss of the "heroes" who made the ultimate sacrifice.

"In this time of sorrow, our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic loss," Lagdameo said. "As we grieve together, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the necessary support and resources to help individuals and families through this difficult time."

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. also attended the arrival honors.

The pilots were providing air support to ground troops against New People's Army rebels in the Kalatungan mountain range on 4 March when the incident occurred, said Col. Antonio Duluan Jr., commander of the PAF 403rd Infantry Brigade.

The FA-50 fighter jet went missing during a routine operation the night of 4 March as it was en route to land at Mactan Airbase in Cebu but lost communication and disappeared from radar.  

The wreckage and the pilots' remains were found last 5 March in the mountain range.

Vigils will be held at Villamor Air Base and Basa Air Base in Pampanga.