MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Air Force (PAF) paid tribute to two fallen heroes, Major Jude Salang-Oy and First Lieutenant April John Dadulla, during a solemn ceremony at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on Saturday, March 8, 2025.
The remains of the FA-50 fighter pilots were greeted with full military honors, as their bravery and sacrifice were recognized by top government officials, including Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Special Assistant to the President Secretary Antonio Lagdameo Jr., AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr., and PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura. Their families were also present for the emotional ceremony.
The pilots lost their lives on March 4 when their FA-50 jet crashed during a tactical night operation in support of ground troops in the mountains. The aircraft was initially reported missing, but a rescue team later recovered their bodies from Mount Kalatungan in Bukidnon the following day.
In recognition of their courage and exceptional service, both pilots were posthumously awarded the Distinguished Aviation Cross, the highest honor for valor in military aviation.
PAF Public Affairs Office chief Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo praised the pilots, saying, “Their heroism in the face of danger reflects the very best of the Air Force’s values.”
Vigil services will be held at Villamor Air Base and Basa Air Base in Pampanga, allowing colleagues to pay their respects as final interment details are arranged by the families.
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