AFP, DND mourn death of 6 PAF airmen in Agusan del Sur chopper crash

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Department of National Defense (DND) on Wednesday mourned the death of the six personnel of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) in the helicopter crash in Agusan del Sur on Tuesday.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all personnel involved in this incident,” the AFP said in a statement.

“Our sincerest condolences to the families of our fallen heroes, we share in your grief and extend our unwavering support during this most difficult time,” it added.

The AFP honored the dedication, skill, and courage of the deceased airmen.

For the AFP, the PAF personnel’s sacrifice reminds the organization of the profound risks faced by those who serve in missions.

“The AFP remains steadfast in supporting the ongoing efforts and in standing beside the families of our personnel, as we collectively pay tribute to their heroism and selfless service to the nation,” it said.

In a separate statement, the DND said their dedication to duty and sacrifice will always be remembered.

“The DND extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the six Philippine Air Force pilots and crew of the Super Huey that crashed in Agusan Del Sur on November 4, 2025,” the DND said.

“We pray for their eternal peace and shall extend all available support to their families at this difficult time,” it added.

Malacañang on Wednesday also expressed condolences to the relatives of the six airmen.

“Pinapaabot [ng Presidente] ang pakikiramay [niya] sa pamilya ng mga nasawing bayani ng ating bansa, at ang lahat ng tulong na nararapat ay dapat na iparating sa naapektuhan na pamilya,” Castro said.

([The President] is extending [his] condolences to the loved ones of the fallen heroes of our country, and all necessary assistance must be extended to the affected families.)

The helicopter was conducting humanitarian operations for communities affected by Typhoon Tino when it crashed in the vicinity of Loreto town.

The PAF said it lost communication with the chopper, prompting the PAF to immediately launch a search and rescue operation. 

Six bodies were later recovered. —VAL, GMA Integrated News