Marcos mourns fallen PAF airmen killed in Agusan chopper crash

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday mourned the loss of six airmen who perished in the Super Huey helicopter crash in Agusan del Sur.

Aboard the aircraft were Captain Paulie B. Dumagan, 2nd Lt. Royce Louis G. Camigla, Sgt. John Christopher C. Golfo, Sgt. Yves B. Sijub, Airman 1st Class Ericson R. Merico, and Airman Ameer Khaidar T. Apion. They were conducting Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) operations in the aftermath of Typhoon “Tino.”

“We mourn the loss of our brave men of the Philippine Air Force who gave their lives in the line of duty, serving our people and our nation until their final moments. Their courage and selfless service in bringing aid to those in need will never be forgotten,” he said.

“On behalf of a grateful nation, we honor their sacrifice and pray for the comfort of their families and loved ones,” he added.

Marcos also visited the wake of the fallen airmen at the Philippine Air Force (PAF) Mortuary at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

The remains of the heroes arrived at Villamor Air Base on Thursday evening. The President offered his condolences to the bereaved families and joined them in prayer.

He paid tribute to the courage and dedication of the fallen airmen, recognizing their selfless devotion to duty and their ultimate sacrifice in the service of the Filipino people.

According to the PAF, the remains of Golfo and Merico were transported back to their respective hometowns.