Aircraft contractor in Maguindanao crash vows support for victims’ kin

The contractor of the aircraft that crashed in Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, has vowed to support the families of the four people who perished in the incident.

In a statement on Friday, Metrea confirmed that one US service member and three defense contractors were killed in the crash.

“It is with deep regret that we confirm there were no survivors. The families of our crew have been informed, and we are providing full support,” the company said.

Metrea also stated that it was collaborating with government authorities to determine the cause of the crash.

“Metrea has enacted its emergency response plan and is working closely with all relevant government authorities to establish the cause of the accident,” the company said. “The safety and well-being of our employees and customers remain our top priority.”

The company did not specify whether it was coordinating with both US and Philippine government agencies.

The Beechcraft King Air aircraft, bearing registration number N349CA, was contracted by the US Department of Defense to provide intelligence and surveillance support in the Philippines.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, the aircraft departed from Cebu and was en route to Cotabato City for an aerial survey when it crashed. — DVM, GMA Integrated News