TWO military pilots killed in Benguet plane crash

Benguet, Philippines – Two military pilots were fatally injured after the trainer plane they were flying crashed in Tuba, Benguet on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. 

The fallen Philippine Air Force members are First Lieutenant Ruth Angelique Pasos and Second Lieutenant Cherky Embudo.

In a press statement, the Philippine Air Force revealed that the incident happened around 10:20 a.m. on the mountain of Cabuyao, Poblacion during a long navigation training flight under the Military Pilot Training. PAF added the involved SF-260 trainer aircraft with tail number 10-39 is one of the 11 planes which departed Fernando Air Base in Lipa City and were enroute to Baguio City.

After being alerted of the accident, authorities immediately rushed to the place of incident where they discovered the two unconscious pilots. The two were rushed to a hospital in Baguio City; however, they were not able to survive the multiple injuries they sustained from the incident.

The PAF mourned the untimely demise of their two military pilots, expressing that their courage, dedication, and commitment to duty shall live through every PAF members and through the country they faithfully served. They likewise assured full support to the bereaved families of the two fallen personnel.

“The Philippine Air Force extends its deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, loved ones, friends, and fellow airmen of our fallen pilots. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their memory will continue to inspire generations of Filipino airmen,” they wrote.