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Tolentino: Jet fighter crash shouldn't delay AFP Modernization program

Philippines | National

Tolentino: Jet fighter crash shouldn't delay AFP Modernization program

By Hannah L. Torregoza

Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino on Thursday, March 6 said the death of the two Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots from the FA-50 jet fighter that crashed should not in any way delay the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program.

Sen. Francis Tolentino (Contributed photo)

“What happened was very unfortunate. Those jet fighters were recently acquired. Let us wait for the results of the investigation on the wreckage,” Tolentino said during an ambush interview in Caloocan City.

“This incident should not delay the AFP modernization program. Instead, it should encourage us to pursue the further upgrading of our defense equipment,” added the senator who is a reservist in the Philippine Army with the rank of Brigadier General.

At the same time, Tolentino expressed his condolences and sympathy to the families of the two air force pilots whose remains were found near the wreckage of the FA-50 jet that crashed in a mountain in Bukidnon.

The PAF’s entire FA-50 fleet was grounded as a result of the crash.

“I join our nation in mourning the loss of our two air force pilots, and extend my condolences to their families and loved ones,” Tolentino said.

At the same time, the senator cited the AFP for successfully undertaking its routine rotation and resupply (RORE) mission for Filipino soldiers stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, West Philippine Sea, last March 4.

“I congratulate the Western Command, our Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the entire AFP,” remarked the reelectionist senator.

Tolentino had authored the landmark Philippine Maritime Zones Act (RA 12064), which strengthens the country’s maritime rights and territorial integrity.

Related Tags

Francis Tolentino AFP Modernization matalinong boto 2025 fa-50 fighter jet

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