AFP mourns death of PAF personnel in Isabela helicopter crash

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed condolences to the bereaved families of those killed in the Philippine Air Force (PAF) helicopter crash in Cauayan City, Isabela.

According to AFP spokesman Major General Edgard Arevalo on Friday, four PAF personnel, including two pilots, one crew, and another officer, died after their Huey helicopter crashed shortly after take off on Thursday night at the Tactical Operations Group 2.

Arevalo identified the fatalities as Captain Fiorelio Bernardo, Major Christopher Cesar Urbano, First Lieutenant Mike Tuesday Tabigne, and Staff Sergeant John Cristopher Taguiam.

The PAF personnel wounded is Airman First Class Gerry Aviles, Arevalo said. He said Aviles is still undergoing medical treatment.

In a separate statement, the Air Force said investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the accident. A PAF team was already deployed in the area to probe the mishap.

Meanwhile, the Defense Department also expressed its symphaties to the grieving families of the fatalities.

It added that all possible assistance would be given to the bereaved families of the personnel.

The said aircraft was conducting proficiency training when the accident happened, Arevalo said.

AFP chief General Felimon Santos Jr. has extended prayers to the families and colleagues of the airmen who died in the accident.

Santos also vowed that assistance would be provided for the families of the personnel who died in line of duty.  — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA News