By el Amigo
MANIL — The Department of National Defense (DND) mourned the deaths of four Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots in a fatal collision involving two SF-260 aircraft in Batangas on Friday, October 23, and pledged a thorough and objective investigation into the incident.
In a message posted on X on Monday, the DND extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, loved ones, friends and fellow airmen and women of the deceased pilots.
The department said the ongoing investigation would establish the facts surrounding the accident, determine its causes and identify any deficiencies that may require corrective action.
“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.
The PAF earlier confirmed the deaths of the four pilots following the incident.
The investigation is intended to clarify the circumstances that led to the collision and determine what steps may be needed to prevent a similar tragedy.
The DND’s statement underscored the need for an evidence-based inquiry as the military mourns the loss of its personnel.
