By Priam Nepomuceno

MISHAP. A Siai-Marchetti SF-260 trainer aircraft of the Philippine Air Force crashes in Tuba, Benguet on Wednesday (May 20, 2026). The PAF identified the fatalities in the crash as 1st Lt. Ruth Angelique Pasos and 2nd Lt. Cherky Embudo, both assigned to the Air Education and Training Command, Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas. (Photo courtesy of BM Paus)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Wednesday night identified the two military pilots killed when their Siai-Marchetti SF-260 trainer aircraft crashed in Benguet earlier in the day.

In a Facebook post, the PAF identified the fatalities as 1st Lt. Ruth Angelique Pasos, instructor pilot, and 2nd Lt. Cherky Embudo, both assigned to the Air Education and Training Command at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas.

The two pilots died when their SF-260 aircraft crashed during a training flight in Tuba town at about 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Initial reports said the two were retrieved from the ill-fated aircraft unconscious and later died.

“Their courage, dedication, and commitment to duty will always be remembered by the PAF and the nation they faithfully served,” it added.

Likewise, the PAF also extended its “deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, loved ones, friends, and fellow airmen of the fallen pilots.”

The SF-260 is an Italian light aircraft used as an aerobatics and military trainer. (PNA)