File photo of one of the Philippine Air Force’s FA-50 fighter jet

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) disclosed Tuesday that one of its FA-50 fighter jet goes missing, while conducting a tactical night operation in Mactan Cebu.

PAF spokesperson Colonel Maria Consuelo Castillo, in a press briefing said the aircraft lost communication shortly after midnight.

The FA-50 fighter jet lost contact with the rest of the flight involved in the mission minutes before reaching the target area,” she said.

Castillo added that other aircraft repeatedly tried to re-establish contact with the fighter jet but to no avail.

“The PAF is now conducting a search operation to locate the missing jet fighter aircraft. Our primary concern is the safe return of our aircrew,” she said.

“We are hopeful of locating them and the aircraft soon, and ask you to join us in prayer during this critical time,” she added.