MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday, November 7, paid tribute to six Philippine Air Force (PAF) personnel who died in a helicopter crash during disaster response operations after Typhoon Tino.
The Super Huey helicopter crashed in Agusan del Sur on November 4 while the airmen were carrying out relief missions in areas devastated by the typhoon. The fallen personnel include pilots Capt. Paulie Dumagan and 2/Lt. Royce Louis Camigla, and crewmembers Sgts. Yves Sijub and John Christopher Golfo, Airman First Class Ericson, and Airman Ameer Khaidar Apion.
President Marcos posted a tribute on Instagram, saying:
“Their courage and selfless service in bringing aid to those in need will never be forgotten. On behalf of a grateful nation, we honor their sacrifice and pray for the comfort of their families and loved ones.”
Full military honors were accorded to the six airmen. Two of the remains have been returned to their home provinces, while the other four were brought back to Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, where President Marcos visited to offer his prayers.
Typhoon Tino has caused widespread destruction across the Visayas and other regions, leaving 188 people dead and 135 others still missing. In response, the president declared a state of national calamity.
Meanwhile, the Philippines is preparing for another incoming cyclone. Severe Tropical Cyclone Fung-Wong is expected to reach super typhoon strength when it makes landfall over the weekend.