AFP releases the names of four Air Force personnel killed in a tragic helicopter crash in Cauayan last night:
• Maj Christopher Cesar Urbano
• Capt Fiorelio Bernardo
• Lt Mike Tuesday Tabinge
• SSg John Christopher TaguiamTheir families have been notified | @davidyusantos
— CNN Philippines (@cnnphilippines) July 24, 2020
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 24) — Four Air Force personnel died in the line of duty after their helicopter crashed in Isabela on Thursday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines confirmed.
AFP spokesman Edgard Arevalo on Friday said two pilots, another officer, and one of the two aircrew died. One airman survived the crash and is now undergoing treatment.
Their Huey Helicopter crashed shortly after take off at around 6:58 p.m. on Thursday in the vicinity of Cauayan City. The five Air Force personnel were conducting proficiency training for night flying when the accident happened.
“AFP Chief General Felimon Santos, Jr. expresses deep grief and extends condolences and prayers on behalf of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to the families and colleagues of the airmen who perished in this air operations mishap,” AFP said.
The Philippine Air Force said all Huey helicopters nationwide are placed on “on hold order” and will be subjected to stringent maintenance and safety inspections especially as the cause of the crash is still under investigation. This means the aircraft could still be used for emergency reasons if given clearance. Hueys are among PAF assets critical in the government’s COVID-19 pandemic response.
