DAVAO CITY (November 4) — Six personnel of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) were killed after a military helicopter crashed in Loreto, Agusan del Sur on Tuesday afternoon while on a humanitarian mission for areas affected by Typhoon Tino.
The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) confirmed that search and rescue teams have recovered the remains of six individuals believed to be the pilot and crew members of the ill-fated Super Huey helicopter.
“The identities of the victims are being withheld pending notification of their families,” EastMinCom said in an official statement.
Initial reports showed that the Super Huey was part of a flight of four helicopters deployed from Davao City to Butuan City to conduct a Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) operation in typhoon-hit communities across the Caraga Region.
EastMinCom said communication with one of the aircraft was lost mid-flight, prompting the immediate launch of a search and rescue (SAR) operation. The wreckage was later found in the vicinity of Barangay Sabud, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
Residents in the area reported seeing debris and what appeared to be burned bodies scattered at the crash site.
In a separate statement, the Philippine Air Force said an investigation team has been dispatched to determine the circumstances and cause of the crash.
“EastMinCom appeals for the public’s understanding, prayers, and cooperation as efforts to locate and identify the crew continue. Further updates will be released once available,” it added.
The crash occurred as government forces were conducting humanitarian operations in areas severely affected by heavy rains and flooding brought by Typhoon Tino.
