Lt. General Arthur Cordura, commanding general of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), flew to Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga on Friday, March 7, to personally condole with the members of the 5th Fighter Wing after two of its pilots died in a tragic crash in Bukidnon.
Cordura expressed solidarity and support for the fighter pilot community as he grieved the death of Major Jude S. Salang-Oy and First Lieutenant April John B. Dadulla, both from the 7th Tactical Fighter Squadron “Bulldogs”, which is under the PAF’s 5th Fighter Wing.
“[Cordura] acknowledged their vital role in safeguarding national security and upholding the mission of the Armed Forces. Additionally, he commended four pilots for their outstanding contributions to recent operations in Bukidnon,” PAF spokesperson Col. Ma Consuelo Castillo said.
The remains of Salang-oy and Dadulla are expected to be flown to the PAF headquarters at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on Saturday, March 8, for military honors and awarding of posthumous medals, according to the Air Force.
Cordura urged all Air Force pilots to uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and integrity in every mission, in honor of the legacy of their fallen comrades.
According to PAF, Salang-Oy was a member of the Philippine Military Academy "Siklab Diwa" Class of 2014, who served the organization with distinction for over a decade, flying numerous critical missions throughout his career.
Meanwhile, Dadulla was a proud member of the Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate Course "SINAGLAWIN" Class of 2020. The PAF said he had displayed exceptional skills and proficiency, qualifying him to fly the most advanced PAF fighter aircraft.
Salang-oy and Dadulla were onboard an FA-50 fighter jet with tail number “002” when it crashed on Mt. Kalatungan in Brgy. Mirayun, Talakag, Bukidnon shortly after Tuesday midnight, March 4.
They were among a group of pilots who were tasked to provide air support for Philippine Army troops running after New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in the hinterlands of Cabanglasan. Bukidnon. Their jet lost communication with the rest of the team several minutes before they reached the target area of operation.
“Until their last moments, both pilots embodied unwavering dedication and commitment to serving the nation,” Castillo said.
The PAF also extended its heartfelt sympathies to the families, friends, and loved ones of Major Salang-Oy and First Lieutenant Dadulla.
“The heroism, selflessness, and bravery displayed by these pilots will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of airmen to serve with the same courage, dedication, and commitment to excellence,” Castillo stated.