The Philippine Air Force (PAF) reported on Tuesday, that an FA-50 fighter jet went missing following its tactical night operation.
In a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo, PAF Spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo “Bon” Castillo mentioned that the aircraft's signal was lost around midnight earlier today.
"The aircraft lost communication with the rest of the flight involved in the mission minutes before reaching the target area," said Castillo.
"The other aircraft repeatedly attempted to establish contact with the missing aircraft until their return to Mactan, Cebu," she added.
Castillo assured that the PAF is carrying out extensive and comprehensive search operations, utilizing all available resources to locate the missing jet fighter.
Moreover, Castillo said the safe return of the aircrew is their greatest concern, and they are hopeful that the crew and the aircraft will be found soon.
"We are hopeful of locating them and the aircraft soon and ask you to join us in prayer during this critical time," she added.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has 12 FA-50 fighter jets, in its fleet.
Meanwhile, Castillo clarified that higher-ups have not issued a directive regarding the suspension of flights for the remaining FA-50s, while the incident is under investigation.
This is a developing story.
