Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 8) — Amid the horror in Sulu following the fiery crash of a C-130 military plane, ordinary citizens and militiamen turned into heroes in the hopes of saving their countrymen.
Residents and para-military forces in this often-perceived conflict-torn island risked their limbs and lives to save those who were onboard the burning plane.
Just moments after the C-130 went up in flames on Sunday, Sulu residents pitched in to rescue passengers who jumped out or were thrown out of the plane.
A Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit assigned near the crash site took turns pulling out their comrades.
“Pagkatapos kunin lahat ng tropa, may dumating na ibang tropa para tumulong. Sibilyan, halos lahat ng sibilyan takbo talaga doon para kunin yung tropa,” CAFGU member Benhar Awaluddin said.
[Translation: When we got them, some more arrived to help. Almost all the civilians ran to help the troops.]
The Army in Jolo is eyeing to honor the militiamen with the military bronze cross medal in recognition of their heroism.
Also among the first responders are the villagers of Patikul, a town often perceived to be a hotbed of local terrorist group Abu Sayyaf. The residents are now being hailed as heroes in one of the Armed Forces’ worst tragedies in history.
Forty-nine out of the 52 people who perished are troops from the Armed Forces and Air Force, with only 19 bodies identified so far.
Army chief Major General Andres Centino assured the families of the victims that they will receive all the benefits and assistance.
