Remains of Fil-Am airman to be brought back to PH

NEW YORK - The remains of Filipino-American US Air Force Airman 1st Class Cedric Eneluna, who died in an accident at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, are expected to be repatriated to the Philippines.

Cedric's father, Mel Eneluna, confirmed that arrangements are being finalized to return his 23-year-old son's remains to Bacolod City.

"I believe the Vandenberg repatriation team will bring him back here to Bacolod City, Philippines," Mel Eneluna told GMA News.

According to Mel, Cedric's mother called him on Friday to inform him of their son's tragic death.

Cedric was killed after the heavy equipment he was operating rolled down an embankment, causing the fatal accident.

Cedric's mother is currently in California to be with her son's remains.

The US Air Force has not yet released the official findings of its investigation into the incident.

Cedric, 23, of Bacolod City, joined the US Air Force on March 5, 2024, and arrived at Vandenberg for his first duty assignment on Aug. 2, 2024. He spent his childhood in the Philippines but later moved to Fayetteville, North Carolina, which he considered his hometown.

According to the base, Cedric "served with professionalism, humility, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates and the mission.

"During his assignment at Vandenberg, he earned the respect and admiration of those around him through his positive attitude, tireless work ethic, and willingness to help others," it added.

"Our Vandenberg family is grieving alongside Cedric's loved ones and his teammates," said US Space Force Colonel James T. Horne III, commander of Space Launch Delta 30 and Vandenberg Space Force Base.

"He made a lasting impression on his teammates through his character, dedication, and genuine care for others. On behalf of Team Vandenberg, I extend my deepest condolences to Cedric's family, friends, and fellow Airmen during this incredibly difficult time." —KG, GMA News