PAF confirms deaths of 4 pilots after two aircraft collide during training in Batangas

• The Philippine Air Force confirmed that four pilots died after two SF-260 aircraft collided during a training flight at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas
• The accident occurred at approximately 3:51 p.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, with both aircraft crashing within the base's perimeter
• The PAF has launched an investigation to establish what caused the two aircraft to collide and has temporarily grounded its entire SF-260 fleet
• The military organization expressed its condolences to the victims' families and assured them that necessary assistance would be provided

Four Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots lost their lives after two military training aircraft collided in midair at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas, on Friday, October 23, 2026.

The PAF confirmed the fatalities in an announcement released on Saturday, describing the incident as an aviation accident involving two SF-260 aircraft. The collision happened at around 3:51 p.m. while the pilots were conducting a training flight.

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Both aircraft, which are single-propeller planes, crashed within the military installation's perimeter following the midair collision. Video footage obtained by GMA News captured the moment the two aircraft struck each other while airborne.

In its official statement, the PAF expressed grief over the deaths of its personnel and extended its sympathies to those affected by the tragedy.

"The Philippine Air Force mourns the loss of four pilots in an aviation accident involving two SF-260 aircraft during a training flight at Fernando Air Base on October 23, 2026. We extend our heartfelt condolences to their bereaved families, loved ones, and fellow airmen," the military organization said in a Facebook post.

Following the incident, authorities began an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the collision. The findings are expected to help establish what happened during the training exercise.

As a precautionary measure, the PAF also ordered the temporary grounding of its entire SF-260 aircraft fleet. The suspension is intended to prioritize personnel safety while the investigation and necessary assessments are underway.

Meanwhile, the military organization assured the bereaved families that it would extend all necessary assistance as they cope with their loss. It also appealed to the public to respect the privacy of the victims' loved ones during this difficult period.

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The PAF ended its statement by paying tribute to the deceased aviators and recognizing their contributions to the service.

"May our fallen aviators' courage, dedication, and service be remembered, and may their souls rest in eternal peace," the PAF said.

In another report, a man was fatally shot outside a school in Barangay Prinza, Teresa, Rizal, on Thursday afternoon, prompting authorities to launch a search for the assailant. A report by GMA News' "Unang Balita" stated that the victim was shot in the head at approximately 4 p.m. The suspect reportedly fled immediately after the shooting. A video of the incident that circulated online showed the victim lying on the ground as his live-in partner stayed by his side while carrying their infant child.

Meanwhile, a motorcycle shop owner in Davao City was wounded after being shot in the arm while resisting an armed robber. According to "Unang Balita," the suspect entered the establishment wearing a helmet before threatening the owner with a firearm. The shop owner attempted to fight back, prompting the gunman to shoot him. The suspect eventually escaped when a commotion erupted inside the store, leaving the victim with an injury to his arm.

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Source: KAMI.com.gh