A Philippine Air Force (PAF) FA-50 fighter jet went missing early Tuesday while conducting a tactical night operation.
PAF spokesperson Col. Maria Consuelo Castillo confirmed that the aircraft, carrying two pilots, was supposed to land at Mactan Airbase in Cebu but lost communication with a companion aircraft minutes before reaching the target area.
Efforts to establish contact failed, prompting immediate search and rescue operations.
“Our primary concern is the safe return of our aircrew,” Castillo said, expressing hope for their recovery.
The FA-50, acquired from Korea Aerospace Industries during the Aquino administration, is among 11 remaining units in PAF’s fleet.
The incident marks the most serious mishap involving the South Korean-built supersonic aircraft. Despite this, military officials emphasized the risks involved in protecting the country’s airspace.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to determine the cause of the disappearance.
