Two Philippine Air Force pilots were killed when their FA-50 fighter jet crashed during an anti-insurgency mission in Bukidnon province, military officials confirmed on Wednesday (March 5). The aircraft lost contact with other jets involved in the mission shortly after midnight on March 4, prompting a search-and-rescue operation. The wreckage, along with the bodies of the two pilots, was discovered in the Kalatungan mountains in the Mindanao region.

Air Force spokesperson Consuelo Castillo stated that the wreckage indicates a crash, but an investigation is underway to determine the cause. She added that all 11 remaining FA-50 jets have been temporarily grounded as a precaution. However, efforts are being made to resume operations as soon as possible to avoid disruptions.

The FA-50 fighter jets, built in South Korea, were acquired by the Philippines in 2014 as part of a military modernization program. The goal was to strengthen internal security and improve the country’s ability to defend its maritime borders, particularly in the South China Sea, where tensions with China have been ongoing.

The crash raises concerns over the reliability and safety of the FA-50 fleet, but officials maintain that the jets have been crucial to military operations. Castillo assured that the grounding is only temporary and that the aircraft will be reinstated once safety checks are complete. The military has not released the identities of the pilots but expressed condolences to their families, recognizing their service and sacrifice.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Facebook/Philippine Air Force.