The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Tuesday ruled out mechanical failure as the cause of the FA-50 fighter jet crash that killed two pilots in Bukidnon last month, attributing the incident to "confluence of factors".

Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo, Philippine Air Force spokesperson,told reporters: "Based on the data that was extracted and assessed, there was no technical or mechanical problem that caused the mishap. As I’ve mentioned, the confluence factors are attributable to the inherent risks of environmental factors such as night flying and flying over mountainous terrain."

"At the same time, there are the operational risks, the complexity of operating with multiple aircraft in a combat situation. These are the factors that interplay, causing the mishap," she added.

Castillo appealed to the public to refrain from finger-pointing and urge for understanding and consideration as she assures that the PAF recognizes the need to improve its safety protocols.

"Right now, we urge everyone to have more understanding and consideration and appeal against finger-pointing at this point. What is important is that the Philippine Air Force recognizes that we need to improve our safety protocols, at the same time, look at different aspects from mission planning, preparation, and at the same time the way we execute using our tactics, techniques, and procedures," she said.

"That is our commitment to enhance our safety protocols so that we can ensure that our future operations are safe not only for our pilots but also for our people on the ground," she added.

The FA-50 aircraft was providing close air support operation to Army troops operating against the New People's Army in Bukidnon when it crashed in the mountain of Kalatungan in March 4.

The PAF grounded the remaining 11 units of FA-50 light combat aircraft after the crash and lifted it on March 25.

"Right now the fleet of FA-50 is on full operational status, they can fly day and night. And actually they are flying in our ongoing bilateral exercises through Cope Thunder and we intend to also have them fly for our Balikatan exercises," said Castillo. Robina Asido/DMS