Quezon City: The Philippine Air Force (PAF) announced that a 'controlled detonation' was performed on the remnants of the FA-50PH fighter jet and its unexploded ordnance. PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo confirmed the operation during a press briefing held at Camp Aguinaldo.

According to Philippines News Agency, the detonation took place safely and was executed in coordination with local government units and communities in the vicinity of the crash site. The FA-50PH fighter jet, identified by tail number 002, was found on March 5 near Mount Kalatungan in Bukidnon, along with the bodies of its two pilots. The aircraft had been reported missing the previous day.

Col. Castillo emphasized that the operation included collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). She mentioned that the specific parts detonated were remnants deemed non-essential and that the operation aimed to neutralize any unexploded ordnance that could pose a threat to the community.

The controlled detonation was conducted following an assessment by the PAF Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, ensuring the safety of the surrounding areas and their inhabitants.