The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines confirmed that a Philippine Air Force (PAF) Super Huey helicopter crashed on Tuesday, 4 November, in the vicinity of Loreto, Agusan del Sur, while en route to Butuan City.

The aircraft was reportedly deployed to carry out Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations within the Tactical Operations Group (TOG) 10 area, in support of relief efforts for communities affected by Tropical Storm “Tino.”

According to initial information from EastMinCom, the helicopter was part of a four-aircraft formation that departed from Davao City earlier in the day to conduct Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) as well as Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) missions.

Communication with one of the helicopters was lost mid-flight, prompting an immediate search and rescue (SAR) response.

“Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing. The Command is working closely with emergency response teams in the area,” EastMinCom said in a statement. 

The command also appealed for public cooperation and prayers as efforts to locate the crew continue.

In a separate statement, the PAF confirmed the mishap, emphasizing that the cause of the crash remains under investigation. 

“A thorough investigation is being conducted to determine the circumstances and cause of this accident,” the PAF said, adding that verified details will be released as soon as they become available.

The Super Huey helicopter, a vital asset in the Air Force’s disaster response fleet, has been frequently used in relief operations, troop transport, and medical evacuation missions,  especially in areas affected by natural calamities.

As of press time, authorities have not yet disclosed the number of personnel on board the aircraft or their identities.

The military assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to locate the missing aircrew and to provide updates as the situation develops.