Lieutenant General Arthur M Cordura PAF, Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), engaged with members of the 5th Fighter Wing during a “Talk-to-Pilots” session at Basa Air Base, Floridablanca, Pampanga, on March 7, 2025.
The visit served as an opportunity for the PAF Chief to personally extend his heartfelt sympathies to the Fighter Wing family, following the recent loss of two brave pilots in the line of duty.
Accompanied by Major General Fabian M Pedregosa PAF, Commander of the Air Defense Command, and Brigadier General Leo A Fontanilla PAF, Wing Commander of the 5th Fighter Wing, Lieutenant General Cordura expressed solidarity and unwavering support for the fighter pilot community. He 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.
In his message, the PAF Chief urged all pilots to uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and integrity in every mission, honoring the legacy of their fallen comrades.
The Philippine Air Force mourns the loss of Major Jude S Salang-Oy PAF and First Lieutenant April John B Dadulla PAF. Both brave fighter jet pilots lost their lives in a fatal crash at Mt. Kalatungan, Bukidnon during a tactical night operation in support of ground troops on March 4, 2025.
Major Salang-Oy, a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Siklab Diwa” Class of 2014, served the Philippine Air Force with distinction for over a decade, flying numerous critical missions throughout his career. Likewise, First Lieutenant Dadulla, a proud member of the Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate Course “SINAGLAWIN” Class of 2020, displayed exceptional skills and proficiency, qualifying him to fly the most advanced PAF fighter aircraft. Until their last moments, both pilots embodied unwavering dedication and commitment to serving the nation.
The Philippine Air Force extends 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.
