DND launches probe into Batangas crash that killed 4 PAF pilots

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday said an investigation had been launched following an aircraft incident in Batangas that killed four Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots.

The PAF earlier said the fatal incident occurred last Friday when two SF-260 aircraft crashed during a training flight. The military described it as an “aviation accident” and said it could not immediately confirm whether the incident involved a collision.

READ: 4 PAF pilots killed in Batangas crash

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In a statement, the DND extended its sympathies and condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. The agency also said that their “service and sacrifice for the nation will not be forgotten.”

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“An investigation is ongoing and will be conducted thoroughly and objectively to establish the facts, determine the causes, and identify any gaps that require corrective action and prevent similar tragedies,” the DND said in a statement.

READ: 2 PAF pilots dead in Benguet crash

The DND added that it will remain committed “to transparency, accountability, and ensuring the safety of our personnel.”

The latest aircraft incident came five months after an SF-260 crashed last May 20 following a long-range navigation training flight in Tuba, Benguet. This claimed the lives of 1st Lt. Ruth Angelique Pasos, an instructor pilot, and her student, 2nd Lt. Cherky Embudo. /jpv