U.S. Marine Corps officials identify marine killed in Maguindanao plane crash

U.S. Marine Corps officials have identified the marine who died when a small plane crashed in Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur last week, according the statement posted by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

Sgt. Jacob M. Durham, who was among four who died incident last February 6, 2025 involving an aircraft contracted by the U.S. Department of Defense to provide intelligence and surveillance support.

"Durham is a native of California. He was trained as an Electronic Intelligence/Electromagnetic Warfare Analyst assigned to 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force," the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement.

"Durham joined the Marine Corps in January 2021 and was promoted to his current rank Feb. 1, 2025. His awards and decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, a Meritorious Mast, and Naval Aircrew Insignia."

“We mourn the loss of Sgt. Jacob Durham, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” said Lt. Col. Mabel B. Annunziata, commanding officer of 1st Radio Battalion.

“Sgt. Durham embodied the highest traditions of the Marine Corps—exemplifying composure, intelligence, and selfless leadership. He was deeply respected and loved by his fellow Marines. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and his fellow Marines during this profoundly difficult time.”

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command earlier stated that, "The aircraft was providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support at the request of our Philippine allies. The incident occurred during a routine mission in support of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation activities."

According to Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the Beechcraft King Air 300 aircraft with registration number N349CA departed from Cebu and was en route to Cotabato City for an aerial survey when it crashed.

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command also said the cause of the incident is currently under investigation.

Meanwhile, the contractor of the aircraft — Metrea — that crashed in Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, has vowed to support the families of the four people who perished in the incident. — BAP, GMA Integrated News